39503 Repair of diaphragm hernia
Also known as: diaphragm hernia repair, diaphragmatic defect closure
Surgical repair of a diaphragmatic hernia, which is a defect allowing abdominal organs to protrude into the thorax. Repair involves closure of the defect with primary suturing or mesh reinforcement.
In Plain Language
repairing a hole in the muscle separating chest and abdomen
Clinical Context
Used for congenital diaphragmatic hernias, acquired hernias, or hernia recurrence. May be approached laparoscopically or via open thoracoabdominal incision depending on location and size.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 106.19 |
| Total RVU | 106.19 |
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 106.19, this code ranks in the 100th percentile among Surgery codes — 13.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 39503?
CPT 39503 (Repair of diaphragm hernia) is a Surgery code. Surgical repair of a diaphragmatic hernia, which is a defect allowing abdominal organs to protrude into the thorax. Repair involves closure of the defect with primary suturing or mesh reinforcement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 39503?
The work RVU for CPT 39503 is 106.19. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Pediatric Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 39503 used?
Used for congenital diaphragmatic hernias, acquired hernias, or hernia recurrence. May be approached laparoscopically or via open thoracoabdominal incision depending on location and size.
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.