46220 Excise anal external tag/papilla
Also known as: anal tag removal, hemorrhoid tag excision, papilla removal
Excision of external anal tags and papillae. External hemorrhoidal skin tags and anal papillae are benign growths removed when they cause irritation, bleeding, or hygiene problems.
In Plain Language
removing extra skin folds around the anus; removal of hanging skin from hemorrhoids
Clinical Context
Performed for symptomatic external hemorrhoidal skin tags causing irritation, bleeding, or difficulty with hygiene. Often combined with other hemorrhoid procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.57 |
| Total RVU | 1.57 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.57, this code ranks in the 10th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 46220?
CPT 46220 (Excise anal external tag/papilla) is a Surgery code. Excision of external anal tags and papillae. External hemorrhoidal skin tags and anal papillae are benign growths removed when they cause irritation, bleeding, or hygiene problems.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 46220?
The work RVU for CPT 46220 is 1.57. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 46220 used?
Performed for symptomatic external hemorrhoidal skin tags causing irritation, bleeding, or difficulty with hygiene. Often combined with other hemorrhoid procedures.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA 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.