23400 Fixation of shoulder blade
Also known as: scapular fixation, scapulodesis, serratus anterior plication
Fixation of scapula (serratus anterior plication or scapulodesis). Surgical fixation of scapula to chest wall to stabilize winged scapula or improve function.
In Plain Language
stabilization of shoulder blade; shoulder blade fixation
Clinical Context
Used for winged scapula secondary to serratus anterior palsy, spinal accessory nerve injury, or scapular dyskinesis causing pain and functional impairment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.52 |
| Total RVU | 13.52 |
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 13.52, this code ranks in the 69th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23400?
CPT 23400 (Fixation of shoulder blade) is a Surgery code. Fixation of scapula (serratus anterior plication or scapulodesis). Surgical fixation of scapula to chest wall to stabilize winged scapula or improve function.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23400?
The work RVU for CPT 23400 is 13.52. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 23400 used?
Used for winged scapula secondary to serratus anterior palsy, spinal accessory nerve injury, or scapular dyskinesis causing pain and functional impairment.
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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.