21181 Reconstruction cntrg benign tumor crnl xtrc
Also known as: cranial base reconstruction, anterior skull base repair
Reconstruction of the anterior cranial base following benign tumor removal, involving repair of dural defects and restoration of bony support.
In Plain Language
Repairing the brain's support structure; Skull base surgery for tumor removal
Clinical Context
Used after anterior cranial base tumor resection. Requires attention to dural integrity and cerebrospinal fluid leak prevention.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.02 |
| Total RVU | 10.02 |
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 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 10.02, this code ranks in the 59th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21181?
CPT 21181 (Reconstruction cntrg benign tumor crnl xtrc) is a Surgery code. Reconstruction of the anterior cranial base following benign tumor removal, involving repair of dural defects and restoration of bony support.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21181?
The work RVU for CPT 21181 is 10.02. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Otolaryngology, Maxillofacial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21181 used?
Used after anterior cranial base tumor resection. Requires attention to dural integrity and cerebrospinal fluid leak prevention.
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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.