48120 Removal of pancreas lesion
Also known as: Pancreatic lesion excision, local resection, enucleation
Surgical removal of a localized pancreatic lesion (benign cyst, adenoma, or small tumor) while preserving maximum functional pancreatic parenchyma.
In Plain Language
Removing a pancreatic cyst or growth
Clinical Context
Performed for benign tumors (serous cystic neoplasms, adenomas) or small insulinomas. Preserves pancreatic function when feasible.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.95 |
| Total RVU | 17.95 |
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 17.95, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 48120?
CPT 48120 (Removal of pancreas lesion) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of a localized pancreatic lesion (benign cyst, adenoma, or small tumor) while preserving maximum functional pancreatic parenchyma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 48120?
The work RVU for CPT 48120 is 17.95. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 48120 used?
Performed for benign tumors (serous cystic neoplasms, adenomas) or small insulinomas. Preserves pancreatic function when feasible.
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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.