43220 Esophagoscopy balloon <30mm
Also known as: esophageal balloon dilation, esophagoscopy with dilation
Esophagoscopy (flexible) with balloon dilation of esophageal stricture less than or equal to 30 millimeters in diameter.
In Plain Language
camera examination with balloon stretching of esophagus narrowing
Clinical Context
Therapeutic procedure for esophageal stricture. Balloon dilation allows gradual enlargement of esophageal lumen.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.95 |
| Total RVU | 1.95 |
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 1.95, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43220?
CPT 43220 (Esophagoscopy balloon <30mm) is a Surgery code. Esophagoscopy (flexible) with balloon dilation of esophageal stricture less than or equal to 30 millimeters in diameter.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43220?
The work RVU for CPT 43220 is 1.95. This code is primarily used by Gastroenterology.
When is CPT 43220 used?
Therapeutic procedure for esophageal stricture. Balloon dilation allows gradual enlargement of esophageal lumen.
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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.