21230 Rib cartilage graft
Also known as: rib cartilage graft, costal cartilage graft
Graft of rib cartilage to the facial skeleton for structural support or augmentation of facial contours.
In Plain Language
Adding rib cartilage to face; Facial reconstruction with cartilage
Clinical Context
Used for nasal reconstruction, chin augmentation, or malar augmentation. Provides natural contour and durability.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.89 |
| Total RVU | 10.89 |
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 10.89, this code ranks in the 62nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21230?
CPT 21230 (Rib cartilage graft) is a Surgery code. Graft of rib cartilage to the facial skeleton for structural support or augmentation of facial contours.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21230?
The work RVU for CPT 21230 is 10.89. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Otolaryngology, Maxillofacial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21230 used?
Used for nasal reconstruction, chin augmentation, or malar augmentation. Provides natural contour and durability.
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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.