20103 exploration pentrg wound extremity
Also known as: extremity wound exploration, limb wound exam
Surgical exploration of a penetrating wound to an extremity (arm or leg) to identify and evaluate soft tissue, bone, or vascular damage. This procedure assesses injury severity.
In Plain Language
exploring a deep arm or leg wound
Clinical Context
Used for assessment of penetrating extremity trauma to identify vascular, nerve, tendon, or bony injury requiring operative management or repair.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.21 |
| Total RVU | 5.21 |
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 5.21, this code ranks in the 35th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20103?
CPT 20103 (exploration pentrg wound extremity) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of a penetrating wound to an extremity (arm or leg) to identify and evaluate soft tissue, bone, or vascular damage. This procedure assesses injury severity.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20103?
The work RVU for CPT 20103 is 5.21. This code is primarily used by Trauma Surgery, General Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 20103 used?
Used for assessment of penetrating extremity trauma to identify vascular, nerve, tendon, or bony injury requiring operative management or repair.
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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.