43405 Ligate/staple esophagus
Also known as: esophageal transection, esophageal stapling, emergency variceal transection
Transection and ligation or stapling of esophageal varices via open approach with creation of esophagogastric resection line. This controls variceal hemorrhage.
In Plain Language
cutting across esophagus to stop bleeding; esophageal stapling for bleeding
Clinical Context
Emergency procedure for massive variceal hemorrhage uncontrolled by endoscopy; provides hemostasis but high morbidity and limited long-term benefit.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.11 |
| Total RVU | 24.11 |
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 24.11, this code ranks in the 88th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43405?
CPT 43405 (Ligate/staple esophagus) is a Surgery code. Transection and ligation or stapling of esophageal varices via open approach with creation of esophagogastric resection line. This controls variceal hemorrhage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43405?
The work RVU for CPT 43405 is 24.11. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Emergency Surgery, Hepatic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43405 used?
Emergency procedure for massive variceal hemorrhage uncontrolled by endoscopy; provides hemostasis but high morbidity and limited long-term benefit.
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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.