23921 Disarticulation sho sec closure
Also known as: shoulder disarticulation with closure, SD with flap closure, staged shoulder disarticulation
Disarticulation of shoulder with secondary closure (closure of residual wound). Shoulder disarticulation with subsequent soft tissue reconstruction or closure.
In Plain Language
removal of arm with wound closure; shoulder amputation with repair
Clinical Context
Secondary procedure following initial shoulder disarticulation when delayed closure is required for infection control, flap design, or tissue healing optimization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.58 |
| Total RVU | 5.58 |
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 5.58, this code ranks in the 37th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 23921?
CPT 23921 (Disarticulation sho sec closure) is a Surgery code. Disarticulation of shoulder with secondary closure (closure of residual wound). Shoulder disarticulation with subsequent soft tissue reconstruction or closure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 23921?
The work RVU for CPT 23921 is 5.58. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 23921 used?
Secondary procedure following initial shoulder disarticulation when delayed closure is required for infection control, flap design, or tissue healing optimization.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.