28160 Partial removal of toe
Also known as: distal toe amputation, toe with metatarsal head removal, toe partial ray excision
Partial removal of a toe including the metatarsal head. This procedure removes the distal portion of the toe with metatarsal head involvement.
In Plain Language
removing most of a toe including the ball of foot; toe and metatarsal head removal
Clinical Context
Performed for severe toe and metatarsal head pathology. More extensive than phalanx-only removal but less disabling than complete ray resection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.78 |
| Total RVU | 3.78 |
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 3.78, this code ranks in the 26th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 28160?
CPT 28160 (Partial removal of toe) is a Surgery code. Partial removal of a toe including the metatarsal head. This procedure removes the distal portion of the toe with metatarsal head involvement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28160?
The work RVU for CPT 28160 is 3.78. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 28160 used?
Performed for severe toe and metatarsal head pathology. More extensive than phalanx-only removal but less disabling than complete ray resection.
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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.