25820 Arthrd wrist lmtd without bone grf
Also known as: limited wrist fusion, partial wrist arthrodesis
Arthrodesis (surgical fusion) of the wrist joint, limited fusion (partial) without bone graft.
In Plain Language
partially fusing wrist joint without bone transplant; selective wrist bone fusion
Clinical Context
Used for partial or limited wrist fusion (radiocarpal only or midcarpal only) when full wrist arthrodesis is not required. Preserves some wrist motion.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.45 |
| Total RVU | 7.45 |
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 7.45, this code ranks in the 48th 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 25820?
CPT 25820 (Arthrd wrist lmtd without bone grf) is a Surgery code. Arthrodesis (surgical fusion) of the wrist joint, limited fusion (partial) without bone graft.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 25820?
The work RVU for CPT 25820 is 7.45. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 25820 used?
Used for partial or limited wrist fusion (radiocarpal only or midcarpal only) when full wrist arthrodesis is not required. Preserves some wrist motion.
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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.