31002 Irrigation sphenoid sinus
Also known as: sphenoid irrigation, sphenoid sinus rinse, posterior sinus drainage
Irrigation of the sphenoid sinus through direct puncture or existing opening to remove secretions and treat sphenoid sinusitis.
In Plain Language
deep sinus washing procedure
Clinical Context
Used for sphenoid sinusitis with retained secretions. Sphenoid location makes this procedure technically challenging but necessary for posterior sinusitis management.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.91 |
| Total RVU | 1.91 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.91, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31002?
CPT 31002 (Irrigation sphenoid sinus) is a Surgery code. Irrigation of the sphenoid sinus through direct puncture or existing opening to remove secretions and treat sphenoid sinusitis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31002?
The work RVU for CPT 31002 is 1.91. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Rhinology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 31002 used?
Used for sphenoid sinusitis with retained secretions. Sphenoid location makes this procedure technically challenging but necessary for posterior sinusitis management.
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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.