24000 Arthrotomy elbow exploration drainage/removal foreign body
Also known as: elbow arthrotomy, elbow joint drainage, elbow exploration
Arthrotomy of elbow (exploration, drainage, or removal of foreign body). Opening of elbow joint for exploration, drainage, or foreign body removal.
In Plain Language
opening of elbow joint; elbow joint surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for septic arthritis, traumatic hemarthrosis, foreign body in joint space, or diagnostic exploration of elbow pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.93 |
| Total RVU | 5.93 |
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 5.93, this code ranks in the 40th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 24000?
CPT 24000 (Arthrotomy elbow exploration drainage/removal foreign body) is a Surgery code. Arthrotomy of elbow (exploration, drainage, or removal of foreign body). Opening of elbow joint for exploration, drainage, or foreign body removal.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 24000?
The work RVU for CPT 24000 is 5.93. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 24000 used?
Performed for septic arthritis, traumatic hemarthrosis, foreign body in joint space, or diagnostic exploration of elbow pathology.
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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.