38530 Biopsy/removal lymph nodes
Also known as: Axillary lymph node dissection, ALND
Surgical removal of axillary (armpit) and supraclavicular lymph nodes for staging or treatment of upper extremity or thoracic malignancies.
In Plain Language
Removing armpit lymph nodes
Clinical Context
Commonly performed in staging and treatment of breast cancer, melanoma, and sarcomas of the upper extremity.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.13 |
| Total RVU | 8.13 |
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 8.13, 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 38530?
CPT 38530 (Biopsy/removal lymph nodes) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of axillary (armpit) and supraclavicular lymph nodes for staging or treatment of upper extremity or thoracic malignancies.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38530?
The work RVU for CPT 38530 is 8.13. This code is primarily used by Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 38530 used?
Commonly performed in staging and treatment of breast cancer, melanoma, and sarcomas of the upper extremity.
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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.