44389 Colonoscopy with biopsy
Also known as: colonoscopy through colostomy with biopsy, transcolostomy biopsy
Colonoscopy with tissue biopsy performed through colostomy stoma for diagnostic evaluation and sampling in patient with prior colostomy.
In Plain Language
camera examination of colon with tissue sample through colostomy; transcolostomy biopsy
Clinical Context
Used to obtain tissue samples from colon or rectum in patients with colostomy when lesions are identified on colonoscopy through stoma.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.94 |
| Total RVU | 2.94 |
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 2.94, this code ranks in the 21st percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44389?
CPT 44389 (Colonoscopy with biopsy) is a Surgery code. Colonoscopy with tissue biopsy performed through colostomy stoma for diagnostic evaluation and sampling in patient with prior colostomy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44389?
The work RVU for CPT 44389 is 2.94. This code is primarily used by Gastroenterology, Colorectal Surgery.
When is CPT 44389 used?
Used to obtain tissue samples from colon or rectum in patients with colostomy when lesions are identified on colonoscopy through stoma.
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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.