12021 Treatment superficial wnd dehsn with packing
Also known as: Dehiscence management with packing, Wound closure with packing
Treatment of superficial wound dehiscence with packing material placement for management of separation of wound edges.
In Plain Language
Packing of wound that has opened; Treatment of separated incision with gauze packing
Clinical Context
Used when superficial dehiscence requires packing material to manage wound separation and promote healing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.84 |
| Total RVU | 1.84 |
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 1.84, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 12021?
CPT 12021 (Treatment superficial wnd dehsn with packing) is a Surgery code. Treatment of superficial wound dehiscence with packing material placement for management of separation of wound edges.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 12021?
The work RVU for CPT 12021 is 1.84. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Emergency Medicine. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 12021 used?
Used when superficial dehiscence requires packing material to manage wound separation and promote healing.
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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.