25040 Arthrotomy rdcrpl/midcarpl joint
Also known as: wrist arthrocentesis, wrist aspiration, radiocarpal tap
Arthrocentesis (surgical joint aspiration) of the radiocarpal joint (primary wrist joint) and/or midcarpal joint with removal of fluid and tissue for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
In Plain Language
draining fluid from wrist joint
Clinical Context
Performed for diagnostic evaluation of joint effusions, infection assessment (septic arthritis), or therapeutic drainage of inflammatory fluid. Can be diagnostic (fluid analysis) or therapeutic.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.31 |
| Total RVU | 7.31 |
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 7.31, this code ranks in the 47th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 25040?
CPT 25040 (Arthrotomy rdcrpl/midcarpl joint) is a Surgery code. Arthrocentesis (surgical joint aspiration) of the radiocarpal joint (primary wrist joint) and/or midcarpal joint with removal of fluid and tissue for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 25040?
The work RVU for CPT 25040 is 7.31. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Rheumatology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 25040 used?
Performed for diagnostic evaluation of joint effusions, infection assessment (septic arthritis), or therapeutic drainage of inflammatory fluid. Can be diagnostic (fluid analysis) or therapeutic.
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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.