38746 Remove thoracic lymph nodes
Also known as: Thoracic lymph node dissection, Mediastinal dissection
Surgical removal of thoracic (mediastinal) lymph nodes via open or thoracoscopic approach.
In Plain Language
Removing chest lymph nodes
Clinical Context
Performed in staging of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies with mediastinal involvement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.02 |
| Total RVU | 4.02 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 4.02, this code ranks in the 28th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38746?
CPT 38746 (Remove thoracic lymph nodes) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of thoracic (mediastinal) lymph nodes via open or thoracoscopic approach.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38746?
The work RVU for CPT 38746 is 4.02. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Surgical Oncology.
When is CPT 38746 used?
Performed in staging of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies with mediastinal 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.