20525 removal foreign body muscle/tdn deep/complicated
Also known as: FB removal deep, foreign body removal deep/complex
Surgical removal of a foreign body from muscle or tendon using deep or complicated technique requiring significant dissection. This procedure removes deeply embedded or difficult-to-access foreign material.
In Plain Language
removing deeply lodged foreign object from muscle
Clinical Context
Used for removal of deeply embedded or complex foreign bodies from muscle compartments or tendons requiring extensive surgical dissection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.45 |
| Total RVU | 3.45 |
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 3.45, this code ranks in the 24th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20525?
CPT 20525 (removal foreign body muscle/tdn deep/complicated) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of a foreign body from muscle or tendon using deep or complicated technique requiring significant dissection. This procedure removes deeply embedded or difficult-to-access foreign material.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20525?
The work RVU for CPT 20525 is 3.45. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 20525 used?
Used for removal of deeply embedded or complex foreign bodies from muscle compartments or tendons requiring extensive surgical dissection.
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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.