23472 Reconstruct shoulder joint
Also known as: shoulder reconstruction with graft, complex shoulder fusion, arthrodesis with graft, total shoulder replacement
Reconstruction of shoulder joint with increased complexity (bone grafting, structural reconstruction). Advanced shoulder reconstruction with osseous grafting.
In Plain Language
shoulder joint reconstruction with bone graft; complex shoulder repair
Clinical Context
Used for shoulder reconstruction with bone loss requiring graft incorporation, significant deformity correction, or when standard reconstruction alone is insufficient.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.58 |
| Total RVU | 21.58 |
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 21.58, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23472?
CPT 23472 (Reconstruct shoulder joint) is a Surgery code. Reconstruction of shoulder joint with increased complexity (bone grafting, structural reconstruction). Advanced shoulder reconstruction with osseous grafting.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23472?
The work RVU for CPT 23472 is 21.58. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Joint Reconstruction. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 23472 used?
Used for shoulder reconstruction with bone loss requiring graft incorporation, significant deformity correction, or when standard reconstruction alone is insufficient.
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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.