41100 Biopsy of tongue
Also known as: tongue biopsy, oral biopsy, mucosal biopsy
Surgical biopsy of the tongue including tissue sampling for histopathologic diagnosis.
In Plain Language
tissue sample from tongue; testing tongue lesion; tongue cancer screening biopsy
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic evaluation of tongue lesions, suspicious masses, or ulcers to rule out malignancy. Common with oral cancer screening and evaluation of dysplasia.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.38 |
| Total RVU | 1.38 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.38, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 41100?
CPT 41100 (Biopsy of tongue) is a Surgery code. Surgical biopsy of the tongue including tissue sampling for histopathologic diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 41100?
The work RVU for CPT 41100 is 1.38. This code is primarily used by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Otolaryngology, Dentistry. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 41100 used?
Used for diagnostic evaluation of tongue lesions, suspicious masses, or ulcers to rule out malignancy. Common with oral cancer screening and evaluation of dysplasia.
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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.