45378 Diagnostic colonoscopy
Also known as: colonoscopy, full colonoscopy, colon scope, colonoscopy diagnostic, screening colonoscopy
Diagnostic colonoscopy (visual examination of entire colon from cecum to rectum) without therapeutic intervention.
In Plain Language
camera examination of entire large intestine; colon screening test; full bowel examination
Clinical Context
Performed for colorectal cancer screening, evaluation of anemia, chronic diarrhea, constipation, abnormal imaging, or family history of colorectal disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.18 |
| Total RVU | 3.18 |
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 3.18, this code ranks in the 22nd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 45378?
CPT 45378 (Diagnostic colonoscopy) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic colonoscopy (visual examination of entire colon from cecum to rectum) without therapeutic intervention.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 45378?
The work RVU for CPT 45378 is 3.18. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, Gastroenterology, General Surgery.
When is CPT 45378 used?
Performed for colorectal cancer screening, evaluation of anemia, chronic diarrhea, constipation, abnormal imaging, or family history of colorectal disease.
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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.