23397 Muscle transfers
Also known as: multiple muscle transfers, bilateral muscle transfers, complex muscle reconstruction
Muscle transfers (multiple or bilateral). Transfer of multiple muscles or bilateral muscle transfers for shoulder reconstruction and functional restoration.
In Plain Language
moving multiple muscles to repair shoulder; complex muscle rearrangement
Clinical Context
Applied in extensive rotator cuff insufficiency, brachial plexus injuries, or when single muscle transfer is inadequate; requires careful planning of donor and recipient sites.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.34 |
| Total RVU | 16.34 |
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 16.34, this code ranks in the 76th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23397?
CPT 23397 (Muscle transfers) is a Surgery code. Muscle transfers (multiple or bilateral). Transfer of multiple muscles or bilateral muscle transfers for shoulder reconstruction and functional restoration.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23397?
The work RVU for CPT 23397 is 16.34. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 23397 used?
Applied in extensive rotator cuff insufficiency, brachial plexus injuries, or when single muscle transfer is inadequate; requires careful planning of donor and recipient sites.
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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.