25100 Biopsy of wrist joint
Also known as: wrist joint biopsy, synovial biopsy
Biopsy of the wrist joint by needle or open technique to obtain synovial tissue or fluid for diagnostic evaluation of joint pathology.
In Plain Language
taking sample from wrist joint
Clinical Context
Indicated for suspected joint infection (septic arthritis), rheumatoid arthritis evaluation, or other inflammatory joint conditions requiring tissue diagnosis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.92 |
| Total RVU | 3.92 |
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 3.92, this code ranks in the 27th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 25100?
CPT 25100 (Biopsy of wrist joint) is a Surgery code. Biopsy of the wrist joint by needle or open technique to obtain synovial tissue or fluid for diagnostic evaluation of joint pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 25100?
The work RVU for CPT 25100 is 3.92. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Rheumatology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 25100 used?
Indicated for suspected joint infection (septic arthritis), rheumatoid arthritis evaluation, or other inflammatory joint conditions requiring tissue diagnosis.
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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.