38790 Inject for lymphatic x-ray
Also known as: Lymphangiography, Lymphatic injection
Injection of contrast or radioactive tracer into lymphatic vessels for diagnostic lymphangiography imaging.
In Plain Language
Dye injection for lymph vessel imaging
Clinical Context
Used to visualize lymphatic system anatomy, evaluate for obstruction, or identify sentinel lymph nodes.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.26 |
| Total RVU | 1.26 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.26, this code ranks in the 7th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38790?
CPT 38790 (Inject for lymphatic x-ray) is a Surgery code. Injection of contrast or radioactive tracer into lymphatic vessels for diagnostic lymphangiography imaging.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38790?
The work RVU for CPT 38790 is 1.26. This code is primarily used by Radiology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 38790 used?
Used to visualize lymphatic system anatomy, evaluate for obstruction, or identify sentinel lymph nodes.
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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.