47135 Transplantation of liver
Also known as: liver transplant, orthotopic transplantation, hepatic transplantation
Liver transplantation (orthotopic) with allograft implantation. Surgical placement of donor liver into recipient.
In Plain Language
transplanting a liver from donor into recipient; surgical liver transplant
Clinical Context
Performed for end-stage liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma, or acute hepatic failure. Major operation with significant operative time.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 87.75 |
| Total RVU | 87.75 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 87.75, this code ranks in the 100th percentile among Surgery codes — 11.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47135?
CPT 47135 (Transplantation of liver) is a Surgery code. Liver transplantation (orthotopic) with allograft implantation. Surgical placement of donor liver into recipient.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47135?
The work RVU for CPT 47135 is 87.75. This code is primarily used by Transplant Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 47135 used?
Performed for end-stage liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma, or acute hepatic failure. Major operation with significant operative time.
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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.