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38222 Diagnosis bone marrow biopsy & aspiration

Surgery

Also known as: Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration, BMA/BMB

Diagnostic bone marrow biopsy and aspiration performed together, obtaining both tissue core and aspirate samples for comprehensive evaluation.

In Plain Language

Bone marrow needle and tissue samples

Clinical Context

Comprehensive bone marrow evaluation combining advantages of both aspiration (cytology) and biopsy (histology) for diagnosis.

RVU Breakdown

Work RVU1.40
Total RVU1.40

Est. Medicare Payment

$46.76

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 1.40, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.

Specialties

Hematology/OncologyInternal MedicinePathology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 38222?

CPT 38222 (Diagnosis bone marrow biopsy & aspiration) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic bone marrow biopsy and aspiration performed together, obtaining both tissue core and aspirate samples for comprehensive evaluation.

What is the wRVU value for CPT 38222?

The work RVU for CPT 38222 is 1.40. This code is primarily used by Hematology/Oncology, Internal Medicine, Pathology.

When is CPT 38222 used?

Comprehensive bone marrow evaluation combining advantages of both aspiration (cytology) and biopsy (histology) for diagnosis.

Track This Code in RVU Edge

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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.