38745 Remove armpit lymph nodes
Also known as: Complete axillary lymph node dissection
Complete or comprehensive axillary lymph node dissection with removal of all nodal levels.
In Plain Language
Complete armpit lymph node removal
Clinical Context
Comprehensive dissection of all axillary lymph node levels in breast cancer and other upper extremity malignancies.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.52 |
| Total RVU | 13.52 |
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 13.52, this code ranks in the 69th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38745?
CPT 38745 (Remove armpit lymph nodes) is a Surgery code. Complete or comprehensive axillary lymph node dissection with removal of all nodal levels.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38745?
The work RVU for CPT 38745 is 13.52. This code is primarily used by Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 38745 used?
Comprehensive dissection of all axillary lymph node levels in breast cancer and other upper extremity malignancies.
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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.