43450 Dilate esophagus 1/mult pass
Also known as: esophageal dilation, bougie dilation, serial dilation
Dilation of esophageal stricture by bougie or other dilator with single or multiple passes using non-endoscopic technique. This stretches the stricture.
In Plain Language
stretching narrowed esophagus; esophageal stricture dilation
Clinical Context
Blind dilation technique for benign esophageal strictures; requires careful technique and repeat procedures for lasting relief.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.25 |
| Total RVU | 1.25 |
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 1.25, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43450?
CPT 43450 (Dilate esophagus 1/mult pass) is a Surgery code. Dilation of esophageal stricture by bougie or other dilator with single or multiple passes using non-endoscopic technique. This stretches the stricture.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43450?
The work RVU for CPT 43450 is 1.25. This code is primarily used by Gastroenterology, Surgery.
When is CPT 43450 used?
Blind dilation technique for benign esophageal strictures; requires careful technique and repeat procedures for lasting relief.
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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.