59012 Fetal cord puncture prenatal
Also known as: cordocentesis, umbilical blood sampling, fetal blood sampling
Fetal cord puncture (percutaneous umbilical blood sampling) for prenatal diagnostic testing under ultrasound guidance.
In Plain Language
blood test of the baby through the umbilical cord
Clinical Context
Performed for rapid fetal karyotyping, blood type and antibody determination, or assessment of intrauterine infections (toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex).
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.35 |
| Total RVU | 3.35 |
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 3.35, this code ranks in the 23rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 59012?
CPT 59012 (Fetal cord puncture prenatal) is a Surgery code. Fetal cord puncture (percutaneous umbilical blood sampling) for prenatal diagnostic testing under ultrasound guidance.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 59012?
The work RVU for CPT 59012 is 3.35. This code is primarily used by Maternal Fetal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology.
When is CPT 59012 used?
Performed for rapid fetal karyotyping, blood type and antibody determination, or assessment of intrauterine infections (toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex).
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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.