42550 Injection for salivary x-ray
Also known as: sialography, sialographic imaging
Radiographic procedure involving injection of contrast material into the salivary gland ductal system for sialographic imaging and diagnosis.
In Plain Language
x-ray with dye injection of salivary gland
Clinical Context
Diagnostic imaging procedure to visualize salivary gland ductal anatomy, identify obstruction, stricture, or ductal dilation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.22 |
| Total RVU | 1.22 |
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 1.22, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 42550?
CPT 42550 (Injection for salivary x-ray) is a Surgery code. Radiographic procedure involving injection of contrast material into the salivary gland ductal system for sialographic imaging and diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42550?
The work RVU for CPT 42550 is 1.22. This code is primarily used by Oral Surgery, Radiology, Dentistry.
When is CPT 42550 used?
Diagnostic imaging procedure to visualize salivary gland ductal anatomy, identify obstruction, stricture, or ductal dilation.
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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.