38221 Diagnosis bone marrow biopsies
Also known as: Bone marrow biopsy, BMB, Core biopsy
Diagnostic bone marrow biopsy, a tissue biopsy procedure to obtain bone marrow core sample for microscopic examination and histopathology.
In Plain Language
Bone marrow tissue biopsy; Getting bone marrow tissue sample
Clinical Context
Used to evaluate bone marrow cellularity, assess fibrosis, diagnose malignancy, infections, and evaluate cytopenias.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.25 |
| Total RVU | 1.25 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.25, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38221?
CPT 38221 (Diagnosis bone marrow biopsies) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic bone marrow biopsy, a tissue biopsy procedure to obtain bone marrow core sample for microscopic examination and histopathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38221?
The work RVU for CPT 38221 is 1.25. This code is primarily used by Hematology/Oncology, Pathology, Internal Medicine.
When is CPT 38221 used?
Used to evaluate bone marrow cellularity, assess fibrosis, diagnose malignancy, infections, and evaluate cytopenias.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.