CPT code 38792 defines sentinel node mapping by injection of a contrast or radioactive tracer into target tissues with massage to move the tracer into the lymphatic system. The procedure is used to identify sentinel lymph nodes and detect tumor drainage, most commonly in melanoma and breast cancer surgical care. Nationally, this code supports staging and surgical planning that can influence treatment decisions and downstream resource use.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise clinical context for the service, typical sites of care, and an overview of what to expect when this code is billed in surgical oncology workflows. The publication provides benchmarking context where available, notes on common modifiers and billing considerations, and references to related clinical and coding guidance. Service-level implications for operating room scheduling, perioperative coordination, and pathology follow-up are summarized to help billing, revenue cycle, and clinical teams understand how CPT code 38792 fits into cancer surgery episodes.

Data not available in the input for specific payer reimbursement rates, associated taxonomies, and ICD-10 diagnoses are noted where applicable.