42953 Repair throat esophagus
Also known as: pharyngoesophageal fistula repair, throat-esophagus repair
Repair (anastomosis or primary closure) of a pharyngeal to esophageal fistula or disruption of the pharyngeal-esophageal junction.
In Plain Language
repair of abnormal connection between throat and esophagus; throat-esophagus fistula surgery
Clinical Context
Indicated for iatrogenic or traumatic pharyngeal-esophageal fistulae, often complication of cancer surgery or severe reflux. Requires careful reconstruction to restore integrity.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.21 |
| Total RVU | 9.21 |
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 9.21, this code ranks in the 55th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 42953?
CPT 42953 (Repair throat esophagus) is a Surgery code. Repair (anastomosis or primary closure) of a pharyngeal to esophageal fistula or disruption of the pharyngeal-esophageal junction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42953?
The work RVU for CPT 42953 is 9.21. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 42953 used?
Indicated for iatrogenic or traumatic pharyngeal-esophageal fistulae, often complication of cancer surgery or severe reflux. Requires careful reconstruction to restore integrity.
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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.