43305 Repair esophagus and fistula
Also known as: esophageal perforation with fistula repair, esophageal fistula repair
Repair of esophageal laceration with concurrent repair of associated esophageal or tracheal fistula. This procedure addresses both the defect and any fistulous connection.
In Plain Language
repairing esophageal tear and abnormal connection; esophageal-tracheal fistula repair
Clinical Context
Complex repair for complicated perforations with fistulization; requires careful dissection and multi-layer closure techniques.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.65 |
| Total RVU | 17.65 |
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 17.65, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43305?
CPT 43305 (Repair esophagus and fistula) is a Surgery code. Repair of esophageal laceration with concurrent repair of associated esophageal or tracheal fistula. This procedure addresses both the defect and any fistulous connection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43305?
The work RVU for CPT 43305 is 17.65. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Thoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43305 used?
Complex repair for complicated perforations with fistulization; requires careful dissection and multi-layer closure techniques.
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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.