38780 Remove abdomen lymph nodes
Also known as: Abdominal lymph node dissection, Retroperitoneal dissection
Surgical removal of abdominal lymph nodes with comprehensive retroperitoneal dissection.
In Plain Language
Removing abdominal lymph nodes
Clinical Context
Comprehensive retroperitoneal lymph node removal for testicular cancer staging and other abdominal malignancies.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.26 |
| Total RVU | 17.26 |
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 17.26, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38780?
CPT 38780 (Remove abdomen lymph nodes) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of abdominal lymph nodes with comprehensive retroperitoneal dissection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38780?
The work RVU for CPT 38780 is 17.26. This code is primarily used by Surgical Oncology, Urology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 38780 used?
Comprehensive retroperitoneal lymph node removal for testicular cancer staging and other abdominal 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.