38510 Biopsy/removal lymph nodes
Also known as: Neck/axilla lymph node biopsy, Cervical node removal
Surgical biopsy or removal of lymph nodes from the supraclavicular, cervical, or axillary regions.
In Plain Language
Removing neck or armpit lymph nodes
Clinical Context
Diagnostic procedure for evaluating supraclavicular, cervical, or axillary lymphadenopathy suggestive of malignancy or infection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.57 |
| Total RVU | 6.57 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 6.57, this code ranks in the 43rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38510?
CPT 38510 (Biopsy/removal lymph nodes) is a Surgery code. Surgical biopsy or removal of lymph nodes from the supraclavicular, cervical, or axillary regions.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38510?
The work RVU for CPT 38510 is 6.57. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Otolaryngology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 38510 used?
Diagnostic procedure for evaluating supraclavicular, cervical, or axillary lymphadenopathy suggestive of malignancy or infection.
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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.