38380 Thoracic duct procedure
Also known as: Thoracic duct ligation
Suture ligation of the thoracic duct for management of chyle leakage or chylothorax.
In Plain Language
Tying major lymph vessel
Clinical Context
Performed for traumatic or post-surgical chyle leak causing chylothorax or chylous effusions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.25 |
| Total RVU | 8.25 |
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. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 8.25, this code ranks in the 51st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38380?
CPT 38380 (Thoracic duct procedure) is a Surgery code. Suture ligation of the thoracic duct for management of chyle leakage or chylothorax.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38380?
The work RVU for CPT 38380 is 8.25. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 38380 used?
Performed for traumatic or post-surgical chyle leak causing chylothorax or chylous effusions.
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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.