21502 incision and drainage dp abs/hematoma nck rib ostc
Also known as: deep neck abscess with bone involvement, cervical osteomyelitis drainage
Incision and drainage of deep abscess or hematoma of neck involving muscle and bone structures. Surgical drainage of deep neck space infections or hematomas extending through musculature into bone, such as cervical osteomyelitis.
In Plain Language
deep neck infection surgery involving bone; drainage of bone infection in neck
Clinical Context
Used for severe deep neck infections involving muscle and bone, including osteomyelitis of cervical spine or rib. More extensive than soft tissue drainage alone. May require multiple approaches or extended drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.36 |
| Total RVU | 7.36 |
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 7.36, this code ranks in the 47th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21502?
CPT 21502 (incision and drainage dp abs/hematoma nck rib ostc) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of deep abscess or hematoma of neck involving muscle and bone structures. Surgical drainage of deep neck space infections or hematomas extending through musculature into bone, such as cervical osteomyelitis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21502?
The work RVU for CPT 21502 is 7.36. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21502 used?
Used for severe deep neck infections involving muscle and bone, including osteomyelitis of cervical spine or rib. More extensive than soft tissue drainage alone. May require multiple approaches or extended drainage.
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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.