25251 Removal of wrist prosthesis
Also known as: complex prosthesis removal
Removal of a wrist joint prosthesis with more complex dissection or additional reconstruction required.
In Plain Language
removing artificial wrist and fixing damage
Clinical Context
Used when prosthetic removal requires extensive soft tissue or bone work, such as significant bone loss or incorporation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.57 |
| Total RVU | 9.57 |
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 9.57, this code ranks in the 57th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 25251?
CPT 25251 (Removal of wrist prosthesis) is a Surgery code. Removal of a wrist joint prosthesis with more complex dissection or additional reconstruction required.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 25251?
The work RVU for CPT 25251 is 9.57. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 25251 used?
Used when prosthetic removal requires extensive soft tissue or bone work, such as significant bone loss or incorporation.
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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.