42808 Excise pharynx lesion
Also known as: pharyngeal lesion excision, throat lesion removal
Excision (removal) of a lesion of the pharynx (throat) tissue using transoral approach.
In Plain Language
removal of throat growth or lesion; throat lesion surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for benign or malignant pharyngeal lesions including polyps, cysts, or tumors. Allows definitive treatment while obtaining tissue for histopathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.29 |
| Total RVU | 2.29 |
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 2.29, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 42808?
CPT 42808 (Excise pharynx lesion) is a Surgery code. Excision (removal) of a lesion of the pharynx (throat) tissue using transoral approach.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42808?
The work RVU for CPT 42808 is 2.29. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 42808 used?
Performed for benign or malignant pharyngeal lesions including polyps, cysts, or tumors. Allows definitive treatment while obtaining tissue for histopathology.
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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.