20101 exploration pentrg wound chest
Also known as: chest wound exploration, thoracic wound exam
Surgical exploration of a penetrating wound to the chest wall to identify and evaluate injury to vital structures. This procedure examines the wound tract for cardiac, lung, or vessel involvement.
In Plain Language
exploring a deep chest wound
Clinical Context
Used for assessment of penetrating chest trauma to identify cardiac, pulmonary, or mediastinal injuries. Critical for determining need for thoracotomy or other intervention.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.15 |
| Total RVU | 3.15 |
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 3.15, this code ranks in the 22nd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20101?
CPT 20101 (exploration pentrg wound chest) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of a penetrating wound to the chest wall to identify and evaluate injury to vital structures. This procedure examines the wound tract for cardiac, lung, or vessel involvement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20101?
The work RVU for CPT 20101 is 3.15. This code is primarily used by Trauma Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 20101 used?
Used for assessment of penetrating chest trauma to identify cardiac, pulmonary, or mediastinal injuries. Critical for determining need for thoracotomy or other intervention.
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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.