21550 Biopsy of neck/chest
Also known as: neck chest biopsy, chest wall tissue biopsy
Biopsy of neck and chest lesion. Tissue sampling from neck or chest wall lesions via needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, or open biopsy for histologic diagnosis.
In Plain Language
tissue sample from neck or chest; tissue testing from chest lesion
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic evaluation of neck or chest lesions of uncertain etiology. Method varies from needle aspiration for cystic lesions to open biopsy for solid masses. Essential for differentiating malignancy, infection, or benign pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.06 |
| Total RVU | 2.06 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.06, this code ranks in the 14th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21550?
CPT 21550 (Biopsy of neck/chest) is a Surgery code. Biopsy of neck and chest lesion. Tissue sampling from neck or chest wall lesions via needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, or open biopsy for histologic diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21550?
The work RVU for CPT 21550 is 2.06. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Thoracic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 21550 used?
Used for diagnostic evaluation of neck or chest lesions of uncertain etiology. Method varies from needle aspiration for cystic lesions to open biopsy for solid masses. Essential for differentiating malignancy, infection, or benign pathology.
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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.