43644 Laparoscopic gastric bypass/roux-en-y
Also known as: lap gastric bypass, LRYGB, laparoscopic Roux-en-Y, lap RNY, lap Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Laparoscopic gastric bypass with Roux-en-Y jejunal interposition for morbid obesity.
In Plain Language
minimally invasive weight loss surgery; laparoscopic stomach bypass
Clinical Context
Primary bariatric procedure for morbid obesity (BMI >40 or >35 with comorbidities). Creates small gastric pouch with direct jejunal anastomosis bypassing duodenum.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 28.67 |
| Total RVU | 28.67 |
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 28.67, this code ranks in the 92nd percentile among Surgery codes — 3.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 43644?
CPT 43644 (Laparoscopic gastric bypass/roux-en-y) is a Surgery code. Laparoscopic gastric bypass with Roux-en-Y jejunal interposition for morbid obesity.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 43644?
The work RVU for CPT 43644 is 28.67. This code is primarily used by Bariatric Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 43644 used?
Primary bariatric procedure for morbid obesity (BMI >40 or >35 with comorbidities). Creates small gastric pouch with direct jejunal anastomosis bypassing duodenum.
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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.