20520 removal foreign body muscle/tdn simple
Also known as: FB removal simple, foreign body removal muscle/tendon
Surgical removal of a foreign body from muscle or tendon using simple technique requiring minimal dissection. This procedure removes superficial or easily accessible foreign material.
In Plain Language
removing foreign object from muscle
Clinical Context
Used for removal of superficial foreign bodies (splinters, glass fragments, etc.) from muscle or tendon with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.85 |
| Total RVU | 1.85 |
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 1.85, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20520?
CPT 20520 (removal foreign body muscle/tdn simple) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of a foreign body from muscle or tendon using simple technique requiring minimal dissection. This procedure removes superficial or easily accessible foreign material.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20520?
The work RVU for CPT 20520 is 1.85. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 20520 used?
Used for removal of superficial foreign bodies (splinters, glass fragments, etc.) from muscle or tendon with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues.
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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.