38794 Access thoracic lymph duct
Also known as: thoracic duct access, duct ligation
Surgical access to the thoracic lymph duct for visualization, biopsy, or therapeutic intervention. This procedure involves opening the chest or mediastinum to directly access the main lymphatic vessel of the thorax.
In Plain Language
accessing the main chest lymph vessel; opening chest for lymph vessel work
Clinical Context
Used for lymph duct ligation in cases of chylothorax (lymph fluid in pleural space), chylous ascites, or diagnostic evaluation of thoracic lymphatic obstruction. Common in post-surgical complications or traumatic injuries.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.50 |
| Total RVU | 4.50 |
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 4.50, this code ranks in the 31st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38794?
CPT 38794 (Access thoracic lymph duct) is a Surgery code. Surgical access to the thoracic lymph duct for visualization, biopsy, or therapeutic intervention. This procedure involves opening the chest or mediastinum to directly access the main lymphatic vessel of the thorax.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38794?
The work RVU for CPT 38794 is 4.50. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Vascular Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 38794 used?
Used for lymph duct ligation in cases of chylothorax (lymph fluid in pleural space), chylous ascites, or diagnostic evaluation of thoracic lymphatic obstruction. Common in post-surgical complications or traumatic injuries.
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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.