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.
In Plain Language
creating opening in esophagus for tube; surgical esophageal feeding
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 |
| Total RVU | 21.50 |
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 21.50, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43351?
CPT 43351 (Surgical opening esophagus) is a Surgery code. 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.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43351?
The work RVU for CPT 43351 is 21.50. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43351 used?
Used for long-term nutritional support when gastric access not feasible; cervical approach provides easier management than PEG.
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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.