38505 Needle biopsy lymph nodes
Also known as: Needle biopsy, FNA, Core needle biopsy
Needle biopsy of lymph nodes using percutaneous approach for tissue diagnosis without surgical incision.
In Plain Language
Needle lymph node biopsy
Clinical Context
Minimally invasive diagnostic procedure for suspected lymphoma, metastases, or infections in accessible lymph nodes.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.55 |
| Total RVU | 1.55 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.55, this code ranks in the 10th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38505?
CPT 38505 (Needle biopsy lymph nodes) is a Surgery code. Needle biopsy of lymph nodes using percutaneous approach for tissue diagnosis without surgical incision.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38505?
The work RVU for CPT 38505 is 1.55. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Radiology, Pathology.
When is CPT 38505 used?
Minimally invasive diagnostic procedure for suspected lymphoma, metastases, or infections in accessible lymph nodes.
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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.