21615 Excision first and/or cervical rib
Also known as: first rib resection, cervical rib excision, thoracic outlet decompression
Excision of first and/or cervical rib. Surgical removal of abnormal first rib and/or cervical rib for management of thoracic outlet syndrome or other compression symptoms.
In Plain Language
removal of extra rib at base of neck; surgery for thoracic outlet compression
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic outlet syndrome caused by cervical rib or abnormal first rib compressing neurovascular structures. Decompression provides relief of upper extremity symptoms. Indicated when conservative management fails.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.19 |
| Total RVU | 10.19 |
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 10.19, this code ranks in the 59th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21615?
CPT 21615 (Excision first and/or cervical rib) is a Surgery code. Excision of first and/or cervical rib. Surgical removal of abnormal first rib and/or cervical rib for management of thoracic outlet syndrome or other compression symptoms.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21615?
The work RVU for CPT 21615 is 10.19. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Vascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21615 used?
Used for thoracic outlet syndrome caused by cervical rib or abnormal first rib compressing neurovascular structures. Decompression provides relief of upper extremity symptoms. Indicated when conservative management fails.
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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.