59000 Amniocentesis diagnostic
Also known as: diagnostic amniocentesis, genetic amniocentesis, amnio
Amniocentesis for diagnostic purposes, including amniotic fluid sampling for fetal karyotyping, genetic testing, or assessment of fetal lung maturity.
In Plain Language
needle sampling of fluid around the baby
Clinical Context
Performed primarily for Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Neural Tube Defect screening when Quadruple Marker screening is abnormal or maternal age considerations apply.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.27 |
| Total RVU | 1.27 |
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 1.27, this code ranks in the 7th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 59000?
CPT 59000 (Amniocentesis diagnostic) is a Surgery code. Amniocentesis for diagnostic purposes, including amniotic fluid sampling for fetal karyotyping, genetic testing, or assessment of fetal lung maturity.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 59000?
The work RVU for CPT 59000 is 1.27. This code is primarily used by Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine.
When is CPT 59000 used?
Performed primarily for Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Neural Tube Defect screening when Quadruple Marker screening is abnormal or maternal age considerations apply.
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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.