38700 Removal of lymph nodes neck
Also known as: Neck dissection, Cervical lymphadenectomy
Surgical removal of cervical lymph nodes (neck dissection) for staging or treatment of head and neck malignancy.
In Plain Language
Removing neck lymph nodes
Clinical Context
Performed in treatment of squamous cell carcinoma and other malignancies of head and neck with nodal involvement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.49 |
| Total RVU | 12.49 |
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 12.49, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38700?
CPT 38700 (Removal of lymph nodes neck) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of cervical lymph nodes (neck dissection) for staging or treatment of head and neck malignancy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38700?
The work RVU for CPT 38700 is 12.49. This code is primarily used by Surgical Oncology, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 38700 used?
Performed in treatment of squamous cell carcinoma and other malignancies of head and neck with nodal involvement.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.