17281 destruction mal ls f/e/e/n/l/m .6-1
Also known as: destroy malignant 0.6-1.0 face
Destruction of malignant skin lesion (face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, mucous membrane) with largest diameter between 0.6 and 1.0 centimeter.
In Plain Language
Small skin cancer on face or lips
Clinical Context
Used for small malignant lesions on facial structures where cosmetic preservation is critical. Common location for basal cell carcinoma.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.73 |
| Total RVU | 1.73 |
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 1.73, this code ranks in the 11th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 17281?
CPT 17281 (destruction mal ls f/e/e/n/l/m .6-1) is a Surgery code. Destruction of malignant skin lesion (face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, mucous membrane) with largest diameter between 0.6 and 1.0 centimeter.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 17281?
The work RVU for CPT 17281 is 1.73. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, Surgical Oncology, Facial Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 17281 used?
Used for small malignant lesions on facial structures where cosmetic preservation is critical. Common location for basal cell carcinoma.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.