21742 Repair stern/nuss without scope
Also known as: Nuss procedure open, pectus excavatum repair without scope
Repair of sternum and Nuss procedure without endoscopic visualization. Surgical correction of pectus deformity using Nuss procedure technique without endoscopic guidance.
In Plain Language
chest wall depression surgery without camera; pectus excavatum repair
Clinical Context
Used for correction of pectus excavatum (sunken chest) using submuscular bar placement without endoscopic visualization. Indicated for functional or cosmetic concerns.
RVU Information
CPT 21742 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Reimbursement for this code is determined by payer-specific fee schedules.
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
This code has a work RVU of 0.00, meaning it does not have a physician work component assigned by CMS. In the Surgery category, 3% of codes share this characteristic.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21742?
CPT 21742 (Repair stern/nuss without scope) is a Surgery code. Repair of sternum and Nuss procedure without endoscopic visualization. Surgical correction of pectus deformity using Nuss procedure technique without endoscopic guidance.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21742?
The work RVU for CPT 21742 is 0.00. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Pediatric Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21742 used?
Used for correction of pectus excavatum (sunken chest) using submuscular bar placement without endoscopic visualization. Indicated for functional or cosmetic concerns.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.