43020 Incision of esophagus
Also known as: esophagotomy, esophageal incision
Esophagotomy (surgical opening and incision into the esophagus) to access esophageal contents or lesions.
In Plain Language
surgical opening of the esophagus
Clinical Context
Performed for removal of foreign bodies, esophageal lesions, or reconstruction of esophageal strictures. Now largely replaced by endoscopic approaches but still used for specific pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.02 |
| Total RVU | 8.02 |
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 8.02, this code ranks in the 50th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43020?
CPT 43020 (Incision of esophagus) is a Surgery code. Esophagotomy (surgical opening and incision into the esophagus) to access esophageal contents or lesions.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43020?
The work RVU for CPT 43020 is 8.02. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43020 used?
Performed for removal of foreign bodies, esophageal lesions, or reconstruction of esophageal strictures. Now largely replaced by endoscopic approaches but still used for specific pathology.
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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.