Article
2025 Microwave Liver Ablation CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jul 31, 2025
Percutaneous microwave liver ablation is typically billed using CPT code 47382, which represents percutaneous thermal ablation of liver tumors. Interventional radiologists and hepatobiliary surgeons commonly perform this minimally invasive procedure to treat primary or metastatic liver lesions. The goal is to destroy tumor tissue using microwave energy. This article offers guidance on the appropriate use of the microwave liver ablation CPT code for accurate billing and coding in 2025.
Table of Contents
CPT Code for Percutaneous Microwave Liver Ablation
Detailed Description of CPT Code 47382
Coding & Billing Considerations
Why Proper Coding Is Important
What is a CPT Code?
Disclaimer
CPT Code for Percutaneous Microwave Liver Ablation
The correct CPT code for percutaneous microwave liver ablation is 47382. This code is used when thermal energy is applied to hepatic tumors via percutaneous approach, regardless of whether the energy source is microwave or radiofrequency.
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Episode # 257 • 31 Oct 2022
Microwave Ablation for Liver Lesions
In this episode, Dr. Chris Beck interviews Interventional Radiologist Dr. Josh Kuban about his liver tumor ablation practice at MD Anderson Cancer Center, including how it's evolved over time with newer technologies. They also discuss patient workup for liver tumors, treatment with microwave ablation, and post-procedure follow up. Dr. Kuban shares why he uses microwave ablation technology, and the advantages of ablation confirmation software for these procedures.
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Detailed Description of CPT Code 47382
• CPT Code: 47382
• Code Description: Ablation, one or more liver tumor(s), percutaneous, radiofrequency or microwave
• Inclusions: Imaging guidance (e.g., ultrasound or CT), needle placement, ablation procedure, and immediate post-ablation imaging
• Exclusions: Open or laparoscopic ablation (use 47380 or 47381), anesthesia services, pathology or biopsy (if performed separately), and follow-up imaging beyond the immediate procedure
Coding & Billing Considerations
• CPT 47382 is applicable only when the ablation is performed percutaneously.
• The code is used regardless of whether microwave or radiofrequency technology is applied.
• Do not report 47382 in conjunction with laparoscopic or open ablation codes for the same tumor(s).
• When multiple tumors are treated in a single session, report 47382 once.
• If separate ablation sessions are performed on different dates, report 47382 for each session.
• Document the number of lesions treated and the energy modality used to ensure proper code assignment.
• Be sure imaging guidance is included and not billed separately unless specified by payer policy.
Why Proper Coding Is Important
Accurate coding for microwave liver ablation ensures that providers receive correct reimbursement for their services while maintaining compliance with payer requirements. Proper CPT code selection supports clear documentation of the procedure performed and facilitates efficient claims processing. It also minimizes audit risks and improves communication between clinical and billing teams.
What is a CPT Code?
CPT stands for Current Procedural Terminology. These codes are used by medical professionals to describe procedures and services performed. CPT codes are crucial for the billing process, allowing healthcare providers to communicate with insurance companies and other payers about the procedures performed.
Disclaimer
The information provided here reflects our understanding of the procedure(s) and/or device(s). This information should not be construed as authoritative. We encourage you to consult CMS.
Dr. Josh Kuban is presenting on behalf of Ethicon. The presentation reflects the opinions of the individual presenter, and the steps described may not encompass the complete steps of the procedure. Additionally, other surgeons may prefer different techniques, approaches, etc., as individual surgeon experience in his/her clinical practice, as well as patient needs, may dictate variation in procedure steps. Accordingly, results from any case studies reported in this presentation may not be predictive of results in other cases.
Before using any medical device, review all labeling, including without limitation; the Instructions For Use (IFU), and relevant package inserts with particular attention to indications, contradindications, warnings and precautions, and steps for use of the device(s).
This presentation is not accredited for CE/CME.
Dr. Josh Kuban is compensated by and presenting on behalf of Ethicon and must present information in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
The NeuWave™ Ablation System and Accessories are indicated for the ablation (coagulation) of soft tissue in percutaneous, open surgical and in conjunction with laparoscopic surgical settings, including the partial or complete ablation of non-resectable liver tumors. The NeuWave™ Microwave Ablation System and Accessories are not indicated for use in cardiac procedures. The system is designed for facility use and should only be used under the orders of a clinician.
The Materials available on BackTable are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the independent professional judgment of a qualified healthcare professional in diagnosing or treating patients. Any opinions, statements, or views expressed are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, platform, or any affiliated organization.