16035 Escharotomy first incision
Also known as: escharotomy first, burn escharotomy first
Escharotomy for first incision to relieve burn contracture and restore circulation in full-thickness burn with circumferential involvement.
In Plain Language
Surgical cut through burn tissue to relieve pressure; First burn release incision
Clinical Context
Emergency procedure for circumferential full-thickness burns that impair circulation or respiration. First incision in the surgical treatment of deep burns.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.65 |
| Total RVU | 3.65 |
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 3.65, this code ranks in the 25th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 16035?
CPT 16035 (Escharotomy first incision) is a Surgery code. Escharotomy for first incision to relieve burn contracture and restore circulation in full-thickness burn with circumferential involvement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 16035?
The work RVU for CPT 16035 is 3.65. This code is primarily used by Burn Surgery, Emergency Surgery, Trauma Surgery.
When is CPT 16035 used?
Emergency procedure for circumferential full-thickness burns that impair circulation or respiration. First incision in the surgical treatment of deep burns.
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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.