43197 Esophagoscopy flex diagnosis brush
Also known as: flexible esophagoscopy, esophagoscopy with brush
Flexible esophagoscopy (examination of esophagus with flexible scope) via transoral approach with diagnostic brush and cell collection.
In Plain Language
camera examination of esophagus with tissue brush sample
Clinical Context
Diagnostic procedure for esophageal evaluation with tissue sampling. Allows brush biopsy for cytology without full tissue biopsy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.48 |
| Total RVU | 1.48 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.48, this code ranks in the 9th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43197?
CPT 43197 (Esophagoscopy flex diagnosis brush) is a Surgery code. Flexible esophagoscopy (examination of esophagus with flexible scope) via transoral approach with diagnostic brush and cell collection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43197?
The work RVU for CPT 43197 is 1.48. This code is primarily used by Gastroenterology.
When is CPT 43197 used?
Diagnostic procedure for esophageal evaluation with tissue sampling. Allows brush biopsy for cytology without full tissue biopsy.
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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.