45990 Surgical diagnosis examination anorectal
Also known as: anorectal examination under anesthesia, surgical diagnostic exam of rectum
Surgical diagnostic examination and exploration of anorectal area under anesthesia, typically for evaluation of disease extent.
In Plain Language
surgical examination of rectum and anus area
Clinical Context
Performed under anesthesia for diagnostic assessment of anorectal pathology, fistula tracts, or disease extent in complex cases.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.76 |
| Total RVU | 1.76 |
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 1.76, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 45990?
CPT 45990 (Surgical diagnosis examination anorectal) is a Surgery code. Surgical diagnostic examination and exploration of anorectal area under anesthesia, typically for evaluation of disease extent.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 45990?
The work RVU for CPT 45990 is 1.76. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery.
When is CPT 45990 used?
Performed under anesthesia for diagnostic assessment of anorectal pathology, fistula tracts, or disease extent in complex cases.
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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.