23415 Release of shoulder ligament
Also known as: shoulder capsular release, adhesiolysis, shoulder mobilization
Release of shoulder ligament(s) for capsular restriction. Surgical release or lengthening of shoulder capsule and ligaments for improved motion in frozen shoulder or capsular contracture.
In Plain Language
loosening of tight shoulder tissue; stretching of shoulder tissue
Clinical Context
Performed in frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), post-operative stiffness, or significant capsular contracture limiting glenohumeral motion after conservative management failure.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.00 |
| Total RVU | 9.00 |
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 9.00, this code ranks in the 55th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23415?
CPT 23415 (Release of shoulder ligament) is a Surgery code. Release of shoulder ligament(s) for capsular restriction. Surgical release or lengthening of shoulder capsule and ligaments for improved motion in frozen shoulder or capsular contracture.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23415?
The work RVU for CPT 23415 is 9.00. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 23415 used?
Performed in frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), post-operative stiffness, or significant capsular contracture limiting glenohumeral motion after conservative management failure.
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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.