2025 CPT code 47380
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgical Procedures on the Digestive System - Other Procedures on the Liver Surgery Feed
Open ablation of one or more liver tumors using radiofrequency.
Modifiers may be applicable.For example, modifier 22 may be used for increased procedural services, modifier 59 for a distinct procedural service, or modifier 79 for an unrelated procedure by the same physician during the postoperative period. Modifier 80 is used if there is an assistant surgeon.
Medical necessity should be established by documentation of the diagnosis of the liver tumor(s), the size and location of the tumor(s), and the rationale for choosing open radiofrequency ablation as the treatment modality. This may include factors such as tumor size, location, number, and patient medical comorbidities.
The surgeon performs the open ablation procedure, including making the incision, exposing the liver, inserting the radiofrequency probe, delivering the radiofrequency energy, controlling bleeding, and closing the incision.
In simple words: The doctor makes an incision in your belly to access the liver. They then use a special probe to deliver heat energy directly into the liver tumor(s), destroying them. This is done through an open surgery, not keyhole surgery.
This procedure involves an open surgical approach to ablate (destroy) one or more tumors in the liver using radiofrequency energy.An incision is made in the abdomen, the liver is exposed, and a radiofrequency probe is inserted into the tumor(s).Radiofrequency energy is then delivered, heating and destroying the tumor tissue.
Example 1: A patient with a single, large liver tumor not amenable to laparoscopic or percutaneous approaches undergoes open radiofrequency ablation., A patient has multiple small liver tumors spread throughout the liver. Open RFA is performed to address all tumors in a single operation., During an open surgical procedure for another reason, a small liver tumor is discovered incidentally. Open RFA is performed at the same time.
Documentation should include operative report detailing the size, location, and number of tumors treated; the method of ablation; any complications encountered; and confirmation of pathology if a biopsy was performed. Preoperative imaging studies should also be documented.
- Revenue Code: P1G (MAJOR PROCEDURE - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Surgical Oncology, Hepatology, General Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center