21558 Resection neck tumor 5 centimeters/>
Also known as: radical neck resection large, extensive neck thorax tumor removal
Radical resection of neck and thorax tumor, greater than 5 centimeters. Extensive surgical removal of significant neck and thorax mass with wide margins and regional lymph node dissection.
In Plain Language
major cancer surgery of neck and chest; large tumor removal with node dissection
Clinical Context
Used for advanced malignant neck and thoracic lesions exceeding 5 centimeters requiring extensive resection with wide margins and complete lymph node clearance. Higher morbidity and complexity than smaller lesions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.04 |
| Total RVU | 21.04 |
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 21.04, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21558?
CPT 21558 (Resection neck tumor 5 centimeters/>) is a Surgery code. Radical resection of neck and thorax tumor, greater than 5 centimeters. Extensive surgical removal of significant neck and thorax mass with wide margins and regional lymph node dissection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21558?
The work RVU for CPT 21558 is 21.04. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21558 used?
Used for advanced malignant neck and thoracic lesions exceeding 5 centimeters requiring extensive resection with wide margins and complete lymph node clearance. Higher morbidity and complexity than smaller lesions.
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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.