21812 Treatment of rib fracture
Also known as: rib fracture ORIF, open rib fixation
Open treatment of rib fracture with fixation. Surgical open reduction and fixation of rib fractures using plates, screws, or other devices for restoration of chest wall mechanics.
Clinical Context
Used for displaced rib fractures causing pain, instability, or flail chest unresponsive to conservative care. Surgical fixation restores chest wall mechanics and reduces pulmonary complications from instability.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.68 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 3.87 |
| Malpractice RVU | 3.07 |
| Total RVU | 19.62 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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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.