21501 incision and drainage dp absc/hmtma soft ts nck
Also known as: deep neck abscess drainage, cervical hematoma evacuation
Incision and drainage of deep abscess or hematoma of soft tissues of neck. Surgical opening and drainage of loculated infections or blood collections in deep neck spaces requiring operative intervention.
In Plain Language
neck abscess surgery; drainage of infected fluid in neck
Clinical Context
Used for deep neck space infections or hematomas not amenable to needle aspiration. Requires anatomic knowledge of deep neck planes. Indicated for abscess with fluctuance or significant hematoma causing airway compromise or mass effect.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.88 |
| Total RVU | 3.88 |
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 3.88, this code ranks in the 27th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21501?
CPT 21501 (incision and drainage dp absc/hmtma soft ts nck) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of deep abscess or hematoma of soft tissues of neck. Surgical opening and drainage of loculated infections or blood collections in deep neck spaces requiring operative intervention.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21501?
The work RVU for CPT 21501 is 3.88. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21501 used?
Used for deep neck space infections or hematomas not amenable to needle aspiration. Requires anatomic knowledge of deep neck planes. Indicated for abscess with fluctuance or significant hematoma causing airway compromise or mass effect.
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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.