21554 excision neck tumor deep 5 centimeters/>
Also known as: deep neck tumor excision, deep neck lesion removal
Excision of deep lesion or tumor of neck, greater than 5 centimeters. Surgical removal of deep neck lesion extending into muscle or deeper structures, with lesion exceeding 5 centimeters in maximum dimension.
In Plain Language
surgery to remove deep neck tumor; removal of large deep neck growth
Clinical Context
Used for significant deep neck pathology including lymphadenopathy, deep cysts, or tumors requiring removal of deeper structures. Greater than 5 centimeters denotes significant lesion requiring careful dissection to avoid neurovascular structures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.85 |
| Total RVU | 10.85 |
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 10.85, 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 21554?
CPT 21554 (excision neck tumor deep 5 centimeters/>) is a Surgery code. Excision of deep lesion or tumor of neck, greater than 5 centimeters. Surgical removal of deep neck lesion extending into muscle or deeper structures, with lesion exceeding 5 centimeters in maximum dimension.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21554?
The work RVU for CPT 21554 is 10.85. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21554 used?
Used for significant deep neck pathology including lymphadenopathy, deep cysts, or tumors requiring removal of deeper structures. Greater than 5 centimeters denotes significant lesion requiring careful dissection to avoid neurovascular structures.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.