23040 Arthrotomy gh joint exploration/drainage/removal foreign body
Also known as: Shoulder arthrotomy, Glenohumeral joint exploration
Arthrotomy, glenohumeral joint, exploration, drainage, or removal of foreign body.
In Plain Language
Surgical opening of shoulder joint; Shoulder joint exploration
Clinical Context
Used for shoulder joint exploration, infection drainage, or foreign body removal; provides direct visualization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.51 |
| Total RVU | 9.51 |
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 9.51, this code ranks in the 57th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23040?
CPT 23040 (Arthrotomy gh joint exploration/drainage/removal foreign body) is a Surgery code. Arthrotomy, glenohumeral joint, exploration, drainage, or removal of foreign body.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23040?
The work RVU for CPT 23040 is 9.51. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Shoulder Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 23040 used?
Used for shoulder joint exploration, infection drainage, or foreign body removal; provides direct visualization.
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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.