43108 Removal of esophagus
Also known as: esophagectomy with reconstruction, total esophagectomy with graft
Esophagectomy (total removal of the esophagus) via thoracic approach with reconstruction using gastric pull-up, colonic interposition, or jejunal graft.
In Plain Language
removal of esophagus and reconstruction with stomach or bowel
Clinical Context
Performed for esophageal malignancy or severe disease requiring total esophageal replacement. Reconstruction maintains continuity of gastrointestinal tract.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 80.80 |
| Total RVU | 80.80 |
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 80.80, this code ranks in the 100th percentile among Surgery codes — 10.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43108?
CPT 43108 (Removal of esophagus) is a Surgery code. Esophagectomy (total removal of the esophagus) via thoracic approach with reconstruction using gastric pull-up, colonic interposition, or jejunal graft.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43108?
The work RVU for CPT 43108 is 80.80. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Surgical Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43108 used?
Performed for esophageal malignancy or severe disease requiring total esophageal replacement. Reconstruction maintains continuity of gastrointestinal tract.
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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.