44361 Small bowel endoscopy/biopsy
Also known as: small bowel endoscopy with biopsy, enteroscopy biopsy
Endoscopy of small bowel performed via enterotomy with tissue sampling via biopsy for histopathologic examination to establish diagnosis.
In Plain Language
camera examination of small intestine with tissue sample; surgical bowel examination with sampling
Clinical Context
Used when small bowel pathology requires histologic confirmation including inflammatory bowel disease, lymphoma, Celiac disease, or evaluation of strictures or masses.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.70 |
| Total RVU | 2.70 |
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 2.70, this code ranks in the 19th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44361?
CPT 44361 (Small bowel endoscopy/biopsy) is a Surgery code. Endoscopy of small bowel performed via enterotomy with tissue sampling via biopsy for histopathologic examination to establish diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44361?
The work RVU for CPT 44361 is 2.70. This code is primarily used by Gastroenterology, General Surgery.
When is CPT 44361 used?
Used when small bowel pathology requires histologic confirmation including inflammatory bowel disease, lymphoma, Celiac disease, or evaluation of strictures or masses.
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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.