39501 Repair diaphragm laceration
Also known as: diaphragm repair, diaphragm laceration repair
Surgical repair of an acute laceration or traumatic defect of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is closed with sutures to restore integrity and prevent hernia.
In Plain Language
stitching a tear in the muscle separating chest and belly
Clinical Context
Used acutely for traumatic diaphragmatic injuries from blunt or penetrating trauma. Must be repaired to prevent herniation of abdominal organs into the thorax.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.63 |
| Total RVU | 13.63 |
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 13.63, 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 39501?
CPT 39501 (Repair diaphragm laceration) is a Surgery code. Surgical repair of an acute laceration or traumatic defect of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is closed with sutures to restore integrity and prevent hernia.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 39501?
The work RVU for CPT 39501 is 13.63. This code is primarily used by Trauma Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 39501 used?
Used acutely for traumatic diaphragmatic injuries from blunt or penetrating trauma. Must be repaired to prevent herniation of abdominal organs into the thorax.
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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.