38562 Removal pelvic lymph nodes
Also known as: Pelvic lymph node dissection, PLND
Surgical removal of pelvic lymph nodes including obturator and iliac chains for staging or treatment.
In Plain Language
Removing pelvic lymph nodes
Clinical Context
Performed in staging of gynecologic, urologic, and colorectal cancers, and for advanced malignancy treatment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.78 |
| Total RVU | 10.78 |
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 10.78, this code ranks in the 61st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38562?
CPT 38562 (Removal pelvic lymph nodes) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of pelvic lymph nodes including obturator and iliac chains for staging or treatment.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38562?
The work RVU for CPT 38562 is 10.78. This code is primarily used by Surgical Oncology, Gynecology, Urology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 38562 used?
Performed in staging of gynecologic, urologic, and colorectal cancers, and for advanced malignancy treatment.
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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.