48146 Pancreatectomy
Also known as: Total pancreatectomy, pancreatectomy
Surgical removal of the entire pancreas (total pancreatectomy) for extensive disease affecting the entire organ, causing severe malabsorption and diabetes.
In Plain Language
Removing the entire pancreas
Clinical Context
Rarely performed due to severe endocrine and exocrine insufficiency. May be considered for extensive pancreatic cancer or severe pancreatitis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 29.84 |
| Total RVU | 29.84 |
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 29.84, this code ranks in the 92nd percentile among Surgery codes — 3.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 48146?
CPT 48146 (Pancreatectomy) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of the entire pancreas (total pancreatectomy) for extensive disease affecting the entire organ, causing severe malabsorption and diabetes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 48146?
The work RVU for CPT 48146 is 29.84. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery, Surgical Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 48146 used?
Rarely performed due to severe endocrine and exocrine insufficiency. May be considered for extensive pancreatic cancer or severe pancreatitis.
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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.