28315 Removal of sesamoid bone
Also known as: sesamoidectomy, sesamoid bone removal, sesamoid excision
Surgical removal of sesamoid bone (typically the medial or lateral sesamoid beneath the first metatarsal head), including surrounding tissue dissection and soft tissue repair.
In Plain Language
Sesamoid bone removal; Ball of foot bone removal; Sesamoid surgery
Clinical Context
Used for painful sesamoiditis, sesamoid fractures, or sesamoid osteonecrosis that fails conservative treatment and causes forefoot pain with weight-bearing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.88 |
| Total RVU | 4.88 |
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 4.88, this code ranks in the 33rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 28315?
CPT 28315 (Removal of sesamoid bone) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of sesamoid bone (typically the medial or lateral sesamoid beneath the first metatarsal head), including surrounding tissue dissection and soft tissue repair.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28315?
The work RVU for CPT 28315 is 4.88. This code is primarily used by Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 28315 used?
Used for painful sesamoiditis, sesamoid fractures, or sesamoid osteonecrosis that fails conservative treatment and causes forefoot pain with weight-bearing.
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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.