49180 Biopsy abdominal mass
Also known as: abdominal mass biopsy, percutaneous biopsy
Percutaneous or open biopsy of intra-abdominal mass or lesion using imaging guidance or direct visualization.
In Plain Language
tissue sample from abdominal mass; needle sampling of abdominal growth
Clinical Context
Used to obtain tissue diagnosis when imaging suggests a suspicious intra-abdominal mass. Common indications include possible malignancy, infection, or uncertain etiology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.69 |
| Total RVU | 1.69 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.69, this code ranks in the 11th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49180?
CPT 49180 (Biopsy abdominal mass) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous or open biopsy of intra-abdominal mass or lesion using imaging guidance or direct visualization.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49180?
The work RVU for CPT 49180 is 1.69. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Radiology, Oncology.
When is CPT 49180 used?
Used to obtain tissue diagnosis when imaging suggests a suspicious intra-abdominal mass. Common indications include possible malignancy, infection, or uncertain etiology.
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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.