21556 excision neck tumor deep < 5 centimeters
Also known as: deep neck lesion small excision, small deep neck tumor removal
Excision of deep lesion or tumor of neck, less than 5 centimeters. Surgical removal of deep neck lesion extending into muscle or deeper structures, with lesion under 5 centimeters in maximum dimension.
In Plain Language
surgery to remove smaller deep neck mass; small deep neck lesion removal
Clinical Context
Used for deep neck pathology of moderate size under 5 centimeters requiring removal through deeper tissue planes. Less extensive than larger deep lesions but still requiring careful dissection to avoid neurovascular structures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.47 |
| Total RVU | 7.47 |
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 7.47, this code ranks in the 48th 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 21556?
CPT 21556 (excision neck tumor deep < 5 centimeters) is a Surgery code. Excision of deep lesion or tumor of neck, less than 5 centimeters. Surgical removal of deep neck lesion extending into muscle or deeper structures, with lesion under 5 centimeters in maximum dimension.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21556?
The work RVU for CPT 21556 is 7.47. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21556 used?
Used for deep neck pathology of moderate size under 5 centimeters requiring removal through deeper tissue planes. Less extensive than larger deep lesions but still requiring careful dissection to avoid neurovascular structures.
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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.