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BackTable / VI / Article
2025 Microwave Liver Ablation CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jul 31, 2025 • 82 hits
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
(1) CPT Code for Percutaneous Microwave Liver Ablation
(2) Detailed Description of CPT Code 47382
(3) Coding & Billing Considerations
(4) Why Proper Coding Is Important
(5) What is a CPT Code?
(6) 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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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.
Podcast Contributors
Cite This Podcast
BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2022, October 31). Ep. 257 – Microwave Ablation for Liver Lesions [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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