Home
Career Stage
Medical Students Residents Attendings CPT Codes Resources Blog Support

21172 Reconstruction supr-lat orb rm & lw fhd

Surgery Global 90d

Also known as: orbital reconstruction, orbitofacial reconstruction, superolateral orbit repair

Reconstruction of the superior and lateral orbital walls and floor with removal and repositioning of orbital contents or implant placement.

In Plain Language

Repairing the eye socket; Rebuilding orbital bones; Eye socket reconstruction

Clinical Context

Used for orbital fractures, tumor resection, or deformity affecting eye position or function. Critical for preventing diplopia and enophthalmos.

RVU Breakdown

Work RVU27.50
Total RVU27.50

Est. Medicare Payment

$918.50

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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.

How This Code Compares

With a work RVU of 27.50, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.

Specialties

Oculoplastic SurgeryMaxillofacial SurgeryPlastic Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 21172?

CPT 21172 (Reconstruction supr-lat orb rm & lw fhd) is a Surgery code. Reconstruction of the superior and lateral orbital walls and floor with removal and repositioning of orbital contents or implant placement.

What is the wRVU value for CPT 21172?

The work RVU for CPT 21172 is 27.50. This code is primarily used by Oculoplastic Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.

When is CPT 21172 used?

Used for orbital fractures, tumor resection, or deformity affecting eye position or function. Critical for preventing diplopia and enophthalmos.

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.