43351 Surgical opening esophagus
Also known as: esophagostomy, esophageal feeding tube, cervical esophagostomy
Esophagostomy with creation of surgical opening into the esophagus for access or diversion with placement of external drainage or feeding tube. This creates esophageal access.
Clinical Context
Used for long-term nutritional support when gastric access not feasible; cervical approach provides easier management than PEG.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.50 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 11.28 |
| Malpractice RVU | 5.41 |
| Total RVU | 38.19 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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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.