21603 excision ch wal tumor with lymphadec
Also known as: chest wall tumor with extended lymph node dissection, radical chest wall resection with extensive node dissection
Excision of chest wall tumor with extended lymphadenectomy. Radical removal of chest wall malignancy with extensive bilateral or multilevel lymph node dissection including axillary, mediastinal, and other regional nodes.
In Plain Language
extensive chest wall cancer surgery; major chest tumor surgery with extensive node removal
Clinical Context
Used for advanced chest wall malignancy with significant nodal burden requiring extensive multilevel lymph node dissection. Highest morbidity variant reflecting most extensive oncologic procedure for chest wall disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.54 |
| Total RVU | 24.54 |
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 24.54, this code ranks in the 88th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21603?
CPT 21603 (excision ch wal tumor with lymphadec) is a Surgery code. Excision of chest wall tumor with extended lymphadenectomy. Radical removal of chest wall malignancy with extensive bilateral or multilevel lymph node dissection including axillary, mediastinal, and other regional nodes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21603?
The work RVU for CPT 21603 is 24.54. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21603 used?
Used for advanced chest wall malignancy with significant nodal burden requiring extensive multilevel lymph node dissection. Highest morbidity variant reflecting most extensive oncologic procedure for chest wall disease.
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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.