48140 Partial removal of pancreas
Also known as: Distal pancreatectomy, distal pancreatic resection
Partial surgical removal of the pancreas (distal pancreatectomy) removing the body and tail while preserving the pancreatic head.
In Plain Language
Removing part of the pancreas
Clinical Context
Performed for distal pancreatic cancer, benign distal tumors, or chronic pancreatitis. May be performed open or laparoscopically.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 25.66 |
| Total RVU | 25.66 |
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 25.66, this code ranks in the 89th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 48140?
CPT 48140 (Partial removal of pancreas) is a Surgery code. Partial surgical removal of the pancreas (distal pancreatectomy) removing the body and tail while preserving the pancreatic head.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 48140?
The work RVU for CPT 48140 is 25.66. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery, Surgical Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 48140 used?
Performed for distal pancreatic cancer, benign distal tumors, or chronic pancreatitis. May be performed open or laparoscopically.
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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.