21555 excision neck lesion sternoclavicular < 3 centimeters
Also known as: small neck lesion excision, minor neck mass removal
Excision of lesion of neck with closure, simple, less than 3 centimeters. Surgical removal of small superficial neck lesion with primary closure, limited to lesions under 3 centimeters in maximum dimension.
In Plain Language
removal of small neck lump; minor neck surgery
Clinical Context
Used for small benign superficial neck lesions including small cysts, lipomas, or skin-based masses under 3 centimeters. Simple closure involves direct approximation without significant reconstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.86 |
| Total RVU | 3.86 |
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 3.86, 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 21555?
CPT 21555 (excision neck lesion sternoclavicular < 3 centimeters) is a Surgery code. Excision of lesion of neck with closure, simple, less than 3 centimeters. Surgical removal of small superficial neck lesion with primary closure, limited to lesions under 3 centimeters in maximum dimension.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21555?
The work RVU for CPT 21555 is 3.86. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21555 used?
Used for small benign superficial neck lesions including small cysts, lipomas, or skin-based masses under 3 centimeters. Simple closure involves direct approximation without significant reconstruction.
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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.