23330 Remove shoulder foreign body
Also known as: superficial foreign body removal, splinter removal shoulder, FB removal superficial
Removal of foreign body from shoulder (superficial). Extraction of foreign material (splinter, metal fragment, etc.) from superficial soft tissues of shoulder region.
In Plain Language
removal of splinter or foreign object from shoulder skin; foreign object removal
Clinical Context
Performed for foreign body in superficial tissues of shoulder (skin, subcutaneous tissues) causing irritation, infection, or functional concern; typically requires minimal incision.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.85 |
| Total RVU | 1.85 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.85, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23330?
CPT 23330 (Remove shoulder foreign body) is a Surgery code. Removal of foreign body from shoulder (superficial). Extraction of foreign material (splinter, metal fragment, etc.) from superficial soft tissues of shoulder region.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23330?
The work RVU for CPT 23330 is 1.85. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, General Surgery, Emergency Medicine. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 23330 used?
Performed for foreign body in superficial tissues of shoulder (skin, subcutaneous tissues) causing irritation, infection, or functional concern; typically requires minimal incision.
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.