48020 Removal of pancreatic stone
Also known as: Pancreatic stone removal, pancreatic ductotomy, stone extraction
Surgical removal of stones from the pancreatic duct through an open pancreatic duct opening (pancreatic ductotomy) to relieve ductal obstruction.
In Plain Language
Removing stones from pancreas ducts
Clinical Context
Performed for chronic pancreatitis with ductal obstruction and stone disease causing pain, malabsorption, and ductal hypertension.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.61 |
| Total RVU | 18.61 |
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 18.61, this code ranks in the 80th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 48020?
CPT 48020 (Removal of pancreatic stone) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of stones from the pancreatic duct through an open pancreatic duct opening (pancreatic ductotomy) to relieve ductal obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 48020?
The work RVU for CPT 48020 is 18.61. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 48020 used?
Performed for chronic pancreatitis with ductal obstruction and stone disease causing pain, malabsorption, and ductal hypertension.
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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.