21610 Costotransversectomy
Also known as: costotransversectomy, rib and transverse process excision
Costotransversectomy. Surgical removal of rib and transverse process of thoracic vertebra through a posterolateral approach, typically for spinal exposure or tumor removal.
In Plain Language
surgical removal of rib and spine bone; spinal access surgery
Clinical Context
Used for access to posterior mediastinum or thoracic spinal canal in cases of tumor, infection, or deformity. Provides excellent exposure of posterior thoracic structures with minimal pulmonary morbidity compared to thoracotomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 15.51 |
| Total RVU | 15.51 |
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 15.51, this code ranks in the 74th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21610?
CPT 21610 (Costotransversectomy) is a Surgery code. Costotransversectomy. Surgical removal of rib and transverse process of thoracic vertebra through a posterolateral approach, typically for spinal exposure or tumor removal.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21610?
The work RVU for CPT 21610 is 15.51. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Spine Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21610 used?
Used for access to posterior mediastinum or thoracic spinal canal in cases of tumor, infection, or deformity. Provides excellent exposure of posterior thoracic structures with minimal pulmonary morbidity compared to thoracotomy.
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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.