30140 Resection inferior turbinate
Also known as: turbinate resection submucous, SMER, submucous turbinate reduction
Resection or reduction of the inferior turbinate using submucous approach, preserving mucosa while removing bone and excess tissue.
In Plain Language
gentle nose turbine reduction
Clinical Context
Indicated for turbinate hypertrophy causing obstruction; submucous technique preserves mucosa, reducing risk of atrophic rhinitis compared to full excision.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.93 |
| Total RVU | 2.93 |
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 2.93, this code ranks in the 20th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 30140?
CPT 30140 (Resection inferior turbinate) is a Surgery code. Resection or reduction of the inferior turbinate using submucous approach, preserving mucosa while removing bone and excess tissue.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 30140?
The work RVU for CPT 30140 is 2.93. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Rhinology.
When is CPT 30140 used?
Indicated for turbinate hypertrophy causing obstruction; submucous technique preserves mucosa, reducing risk of atrophic rhinitis compared to full excision.
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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.