48100 Biopsy of pancreas open
Also known as: Open pancreatic biopsy, tissue diagnosis
Open surgical biopsy of the pancreas through an abdominal incision to obtain tissue diagnosis for suspected malignancy, inflammation, or other disease.
In Plain Language
Taking a pancreas tissue sample through surgical incision
Clinical Context
Performed for diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, or inflammatory disease when imaging remains inconclusive.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 14.10 |
| Total RVU | 14.10 |
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 14.10, this code ranks in the 71st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 48100?
CPT 48100 (Biopsy of pancreas open) is a Surgery code. Open surgical biopsy of the pancreas through an abdominal incision to obtain tissue diagnosis for suspected malignancy, inflammation, or other disease.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 48100?
The work RVU for CPT 48100 is 14.10. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery, Pathology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 48100 used?
Performed for diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, or inflammatory disease when imaging remains inconclusive.
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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.