12051 Intmd repair face/millimeters 2.5 centimeters/<
Also known as: Intermediate facial laceration repair, Layered facial wound closure, intermediate face lac repair 2.5cm or less, layered face lac repair, intermediate laceration repair face 2.5cm
Repair of intermediate complexity laceration on the face or mucous membrane measuring two point five centimeters or less.
In Plain Language
Multi-layer stitching of small cut on face; Intermediate facial wound closure
Clinical Context
Used for small facial lacerations requiring layered closure technique with attention to cosmetic outcome.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.27 |
| Total RVU | 2.27 |
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 2.27, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 12051?
CPT 12051 (Intmd repair face/millimeters 2.5 centimeters/<) is a Surgery code. Repair of intermediate complexity laceration on the face or mucous membrane measuring two point five centimeters or less.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 12051?
The work RVU for CPT 12051 is 2.27. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Emergency Medicine. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 12051 used?
Used for small facial lacerations requiring layered closure technique with attention to cosmetic outcome.
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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.