49320 Diagnostic laparoscopic separate procedure
Also known as: diagnostic laparoscopy, diag lap, exploratory laparoscopy
Diagnostic laparoscopy (separate procedure) to visualize and assess abdominal and pelvic organs.
In Plain Language
camera inspection of abdomen; laparoscopic exploration
Clinical Context
Minimally invasive visualization of abdominal and pelvic structures via camera. Used to evaluate acute abdomen, assess for metastatic disease, or guide therapeutic interventions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.01 |
| Total RVU | 5.01 |
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 5.01, this code ranks in the 34th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49320?
CPT 49320 (Diagnostic laparoscopic separate procedure) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic laparoscopy (separate procedure) to visualize and assess abdominal and pelvic organs.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49320?
The work RVU for CPT 49320 is 5.01. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Gynecology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 49320 used?
Minimally invasive visualization of abdominal and pelvic structures via camera. Used to evaluate acute abdomen, assess for metastatic disease, or guide therapeutic interventions.
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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.