10160 Puncture aspiration absc hmtma bulla
Also known as: Needle aspiration, Percutaneous aspiration, Bulla aspiration, aspiration of abscess, needle drainage
Puncture aspiration of abscess, hematoma, or bulla. Percutaneous needle drainage of localized fluid collection without incision.
In Plain Language
Needle drainage of abscess; Needle aspiration of fluid
Clinical Context
Minimally invasive procedure for symptomatic fluid collections, particularly useful for bullae in pulmonary disease or superficial collections.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.22 |
| Total RVU | 1.22 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.22, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 10160?
CPT 10160 (Puncture aspiration absc hmtma bulla) is a Surgery code. Puncture aspiration of abscess, hematoma, or bulla. Percutaneous needle drainage of localized fluid collection without incision.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 10160?
The work RVU for CPT 10160 is 1.22. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Pulmonology, Interventional Radiology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 10160 used?
Minimally invasive procedure for symptomatic fluid collections, particularly useful for bullae in pulmonary disease or superficial collections.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.