12018 repair f/e/e/n/l/m >30.0 centimeters
Also known as: Simple facial laceration repair, Major facial wound closure
Repair of simple laceration or wound on the face, ear, eyelid, nose, lip, or mucous membrane measuring greater than thirty centimeters.
In Plain Language
Stitching of extremely large cut on face; Simple closure for very extensive facial wounds
Clinical Context
Used for simple closure of extremely large facial lacerations when single-layer closure is sufficient.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.52 |
| Total RVU | 3.52 |
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 3.52, this code ranks in the 25th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 12018?
CPT 12018 (repair f/e/e/n/l/m >30.0 centimeters) is a Surgery code. Repair of simple laceration or wound on the face, ear, eyelid, nose, lip, or mucous membrane measuring greater than thirty centimeters.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 12018?
The work RVU for CPT 12018 is 3.52. This code is primarily used by Emergency Medicine, Plastic Surgery.
When is CPT 12018 used?
Used for simple closure of extremely large facial lacerations when single-layer closure is sufficient.
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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.