48102 Needle biopsy pancreas
Also known as: Percutaneous pancreatic biopsy, FNA, fine needle aspiration
Percutaneous needle biopsy of the pancreas using imaging guidance to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis of pancreatic disease.
In Plain Language
Taking small pancreas sample with needle through skin
Clinical Context
Minimally invasive approach to diagnose pancreatic cancer, cystic lesions, or focal inflammatory disease. Often ultrasound or CT-guided.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.58 |
| Total RVU | 4.58 |
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 4.58, this code ranks in the 31st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 48102?
CPT 48102 (Needle biopsy pancreas) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous needle biopsy of the pancreas using imaging guidance to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis of pancreatic disease.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 48102?
The work RVU for CPT 48102 is 4.58. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, General Surgery, Pathology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 48102 used?
Minimally invasive approach to diagnose pancreatic cancer, cystic lesions, or focal inflammatory disease. Often ultrasound or CT-guided.
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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.