12020 Treatment superficial wnd dehsn simple closure
Also known as: Wound dehiscence repair, Reopening closure
Treatment of superficial wound dehiscence (separation of wound edges) with simple closure technique, typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
In Plain Language
Reclosure of wound that opened; Simple repair of separated surgical incision
Clinical Context
Used for management of superficial wound separation following surgery, typically minor separation not involving deep layers.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.60 |
| Total RVU | 2.60 |
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 2.60, this code ranks in the 18th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 12020?
CPT 12020 (Treatment superficial wnd dehsn simple closure) is a Surgery code. Treatment of superficial wound dehiscence (separation of wound edges) with simple closure technique, typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 12020?
The work RVU for CPT 12020 is 2.60. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Emergency Medicine. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 12020 used?
Used for management of superficial wound separation following surgery, typically minor separation not involving deep layers.
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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.