43123 Partial removal of esophagus
Also known as: complex esophageal replacement, esophageal replacement with complex reconstruction
Total esophageal replacement via combination of thoracic resection and abdominal reconstruction with complex graft or flap procedure.
In Plain Language
complete esophagus replacement with complex surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for complex esophageal pathology requiring maximal surgical expertise. May involve free tissue transfer or multiple-stage reconstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 81.04 |
| Total RVU | 81.04 |
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 81.04, 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 43123?
CPT 43123 (Partial removal of esophagus) is a Surgery code. Total esophageal replacement via combination of thoracic resection and abdominal reconstruction with complex graft or flap procedure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43123?
The work RVU for CPT 43123 is 81.04. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43123 used?
Performed for complex esophageal pathology requiring maximal surgical expertise. May involve free tissue transfer or multiple-stage reconstruction.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.