28820 Amputation of toe
Also known as: toe amputation, digit amputation, distal toe removal
Surgical amputation of a toe (hallux or lesser digit) at the interphalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joint level, removing the digit at the joint without metatarsal resection.
In Plain Language
Toe removal; Digit removal; Toe loss
Clinical Context
Used for severe toe infection, trauma, vascular disease, gangrene, or malignancy when distal digit amputation is appropriate.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.42 |
| Total RVU | 3.42 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.42, this code ranks in the 24th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 28820?
CPT 28820 (Amputation of toe) is a Surgery code. Surgical amputation of a toe (hallux or lesser digit) at the interphalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joint level, removing the digit at the joint without metatarsal resection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28820?
The work RVU for CPT 28820 is 3.42. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Podiatry.
When is CPT 28820 used?
Used for severe toe infection, trauma, vascular disease, gangrene, or malignancy when distal digit amputation is appropriate.
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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.