11981 Insertion drug dlvr implant
Also known as: Drug implant insertion, Subdermal implant
Insertion of a subcutaneous drug delivery implant device for sustained release of medication over an extended period.
In Plain Language
Placement of medication-releasing implant under skin; Long-acting medication implant insertion
Clinical Context
Used for various drug delivery systems including contraceptives, medications for chronic conditions, and other sustained-release formulations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.11 |
| Total RVU | 1.11 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.11, this code ranks in the 5th percentile among Surgery codes — 7.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 11981?
CPT 11981 (Insertion drug dlvr implant) is a Surgery code. Insertion of a subcutaneous drug delivery implant device for sustained release of medication over an extended period.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 11981?
The work RVU for CPT 11981 is 1.11. This code is primarily used by Family Medicine, Internal Medicine.
When is CPT 11981 used?
Used for various drug delivery systems including contraceptives, medications for chronic conditions, and other sustained-release formulations.
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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.