46916 Cryosurgery anal lesion(s)
Also known as: cryotherapy, cryogenic ablation, freezing treatment
Destruction of anal lesions using cryosurgery (freezing). Liquid nitrogen or other cryogens ablate anal pathology.
In Plain Language
freezing anal lesions to destroy them; liquid nitrogen treatment
Clinical Context
Used for external anal lesions including warts, condylomas, and small polyps. Minimal post-operative pain.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.86 |
| Total RVU | 1.86 |
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 1.86, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 46916?
CPT 46916 (Cryosurgery anal lesion(s)) is a Surgery code. Destruction of anal lesions using cryosurgery (freezing). Liquid nitrogen or other cryogens ablate anal pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 46916?
The work RVU for CPT 46916 is 1.86. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 46916 used?
Used for external anal lesions including warts, condylomas, and small polyps. Minimal post-operative pain.
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.