44322 Colostomy with biopsies
Also known as: colostomy with biopsy, colostomy and biopsy
Open creation of colostomy with concurrent tissue sampling via punch or excisional biopsy for histopathologic examination of intestinal tissue.
In Plain Language
surgery to create colostomy with tissue sample taken; ostomy creation with tissue collection
Clinical Context
Used when colostomy creation is performed concurrently with need for intestinal biopsy to confirm diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, dysplasia, or malignancy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.99 |
| Total RVU | 12.99 |
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 12.99, this code ranks in the 67th 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 44322?
CPT 44322 (Colostomy with biopsies) is a Surgery code. Open creation of colostomy with concurrent tissue sampling via punch or excisional biopsy for histopathologic examination of intestinal tissue.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44322?
The work RVU for CPT 44322 is 12.99. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 44322 used?
Used when colostomy creation is performed concurrently with need for intestinal biopsy to confirm diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, dysplasia, or malignancy.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national 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.