23491 Reinforce shoulder bones
Also known as: shoulder girdle reinforcement, multi-site shoulder fixation, shoulder osseous reinforcement
Reinforcement of shoulder bones (multiple osseous structures). Reinforcement of shoulder girdle bones through plating, fixation, or structural support of multiple sites.
In Plain Language
strengthening of multiple shoulder bones; shoulder support
Clinical Context
Applied when multiple shoulder girdle bones (clavicle, scapula, humerus) require simultaneous reinforcement or fixation in complex trauma or reconstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 14.18 |
| Total RVU | 14.18 |
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 14.18, this code ranks in the 71st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23491?
CPT 23491 (Reinforce shoulder bones) is a Surgery code. Reinforcement of shoulder bones (multiple osseous structures). Reinforcement of shoulder girdle bones through plating, fixation, or structural support of multiple sites.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23491?
The work RVU for CPT 23491 is 14.18. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 23491 used?
Applied when multiple shoulder girdle bones (clavicle, scapula, humerus) require simultaneous reinforcement or fixation in complex trauma or reconstruction.
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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.