59030 Fetal scalp blood sampling
Also known as: fetal scalp sampling, fetal blood pH, scalp blood gas
Fetal scalp blood sampling involves obtaining fetal blood from the fetal scalp during labor for assessment of fetal pH and acid-base status.
In Plain Language
checking baby's blood pH during labor
Clinical Context
Performed when fetal monitoring shows concerning patterns; normal pH (>7.25) reassures, while low pH (<7.20) indicates fetal acidemia requiring intervention.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.94 |
| Total RVU | 1.94 |
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 1.94, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 59030?
CPT 59030 (Fetal scalp blood sampling) is a Surgery code. Fetal scalp blood sampling involves obtaining fetal blood from the fetal scalp during labor for assessment of fetal pH and acid-base status.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 59030?
The work RVU for CPT 59030 is 1.94. This code is primarily used by Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine.
When is CPT 59030 used?
Performed when fetal monitoring shows concerning patterns; normal pH (>7.25) reassures, while low pH (<7.20) indicates fetal acidemia requiring intervention.
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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.