43453 Dilate esophagus
Also known as: fluoroscopic dilation, radiographic dilation, dilator dilation
Dilation of esophageal stricture with contrast radiographic guidance and dilator manipulation under fluoroscopic visualization. This stretches the stricture under imaging.
In Plain Language
stretching narrowed esophagus with X-ray guidance; fluoroscopic stricture dilation
Clinical Context
Safer technique for esophageal stricture dilation; fluoroscopy improves visualization and reduces perforation risk compared to blind dilation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.37 |
| Total RVU | 1.37 |
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 1.37, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43453?
CPT 43453 (Dilate esophagus) is a Surgery code. Dilation of esophageal stricture with contrast radiographic guidance and dilator manipulation under fluoroscopic visualization. This stretches the stricture under imaging.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43453?
The work RVU for CPT 43453 is 1.37. This code is primarily used by Radiology, Gastroenterology, Surgery.
When is CPT 43453 used?
Safer technique for esophageal stricture dilation; fluoroscopy improves visualization and reduces perforation risk compared to blind dilation.
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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.