43045 Esophagotomy thrc removal foreign body
Also known as: esophagotomy for foreign body removal, foreign body esophagotomy
Esophagotomy (surgical opening into the esophagus) with removal of foreign body via thoracic approach.
In Plain Language
surgery through chest to remove swallowed object from esophagus
Clinical Context
Used when foreign body cannot be removed endoscopically and requires open surgical access. Common in pediatric cases with food impaction or object aspiration.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.33 |
| Total RVU | 21.33 |
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 21.33, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43045?
CPT 43045 (Esophagotomy thrc removal foreign body) is a Surgery code. Esophagotomy (surgical opening into the esophagus) with removal of foreign body via thoracic approach.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43045?
The work RVU for CPT 43045 is 21.33. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Emergency Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43045 used?
Used when foreign body cannot be removed endoscopically and requires open surgical access. Common in pediatric cases with food impaction or object aspiration.
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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.