15837 excision excsv skin forearm/hand
Also known as: forearm exc, hand skin removal
Excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue from the forearm and hand region, addressing redundant tissue in the distal upper extremity.
In Plain Language
Forearm skin tightening; Hand and forearm lift
Clinical Context
Performed less frequently than proximal arm excision, but used when forearm and hand skin laxity is significant. Part of comprehensive body contouring.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.31 |
| Total RVU | 9.31 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 9.31, this code ranks in the 56th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 15837?
CPT 15837 (excision excsv skin forearm/hand) is a Surgery code. Excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue from the forearm and hand region, addressing redundant tissue in the distal upper extremity.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 15837?
The work RVU for CPT 15837 is 9.31. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Body Contouring. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 15837 used?
Performed less frequently than proximal arm excision, but used when forearm and hand skin laxity is significant. Part of comprehensive body contouring.
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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.