43500 Surgical opening of stomach
Also known as: gastrostomy, surgical gastric access, open gastrostomy
Surgical opening of the stomach with creation of gastrostomy, gastric tube, or other gastric access without specific therapeutic intent. This creates gastric access.
In Plain Language
surgical opening into stomach; creating gastric access
Clinical Context
Creation of nutritional access to stomach for long-term enteral feeding when percutaneous endoscopic approach not feasible.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.47 |
| Total RVU | 12.47 |
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 12.47, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43500?
CPT 43500 (Surgical opening of stomach) is a Surgery code. Surgical opening of the stomach with creation of gastrostomy, gastric tube, or other gastric access without specific therapeutic intent. This creates gastric access.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43500?
The work RVU for CPT 43500 is 12.47. This code is primarily used by Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43500 used?
Creation of nutritional access to stomach for long-term enteral feeding when percutaneous endoscopic approach not feasible.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.