25031 incision and drainage forearm and/or wrist bursa
Also known as: bursa drainage, bursitis I&D
Incision and drainage of a bursa (fluid-filled sac) in the forearm and/or wrist area, removing accumulated fluid to relieve pressure and inflammation.
In Plain Language
draining fluid from forearm bursa
Clinical Context
Indicated for symptomatic bursitis that is refractory to conservative treatment or shows signs of infection. Bursae commonly affected include the olecrananon and wrist bursae.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.15 |
| Total RVU | 4.15 |
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 4.15, this code ranks in the 28th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 25031?
CPT 25031 (incision and drainage forearm and/or wrist bursa) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of a bursa (fluid-filled sac) in the forearm and/or wrist area, removing accumulated fluid to relieve pressure and inflammation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 25031?
The work RVU for CPT 25031 is 4.15. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 25031 used?
Indicated for symptomatic bursitis that is refractory to conservative treatment or shows signs of infection. Bursae commonly affected include the olecrananon and wrist bursae.
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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.