21552 excision neck lesion sternoclavicular 3 centimeters/>
Also known as: neck lesion excision simple, cyst or mass removal from neck
Excision of lesion of neck with closure, simple, greater than 3 centimeters. Surgical removal of small neck lesion with primary closure of operative defect, limited to lesions exceeding 3 centimeters in dimension.
In Plain Language
surgical removal of neck growth; lump removal from neck
Clinical Context
Used for benign superficial neck lesions including cysts, lipomas, or small masses greater than 3 centimeters. Simple closure indicates straightforward single-layer approximation without flaps or grafts.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.33 |
| Total RVU | 6.33 |
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 6.33, this code ranks in the 42nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21552?
CPT 21552 (excision neck lesion sternoclavicular 3 centimeters/>) is a Surgery code. Excision of lesion of neck with closure, simple, greater than 3 centimeters. Surgical removal of small neck lesion with primary closure of operative defect, limited to lesions exceeding 3 centimeters in dimension.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21552?
The work RVU for CPT 21552 is 6.33. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21552 used?
Used for benign superficial neck lesions including cysts, lipomas, or small masses greater than 3 centimeters. Simple closure indicates straightforward single-layer approximation without flaps or grafts.
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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.