49321 Laparoscopy biopsy
Also known as: laparoscopic biopsy, lap biopsy, minimally invasive biopsy
Laparoscopic biopsy of abdominal or pelvic organs with tissue collection for pathological examination.
In Plain Language
tissue sample via camera-guided procedure; minimally invasive tissue collection
Clinical Context
Laparoscopic tissue sampling of suspicious abdominal or pelvic lesions. Used when diagnosis cannot be established by imaging alone or to confirm malignancy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.30 |
| Total RVU | 5.30 |
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 5.30, this code ranks in the 36th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49321?
CPT 49321 (Laparoscopy biopsy) is a Surgery code. Laparoscopic biopsy of abdominal or pelvic organs with tissue collection for pathological examination.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49321?
The work RVU for CPT 49321 is 5.30. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Gynecology, Oncology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 49321 used?
Laparoscopic tissue sampling of suspicious abdominal or pelvic lesions. Used when diagnosis cannot be established by imaging alone or to confirm malignancy.
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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.