31051 Sphenoid sinus surgery
Also known as: extensive sphenoid surgery, sphenoidotomy, sphenoid disease treatment
Surgical exploration and treatment of the sphenoid sinus with extensive tissue management, including removal of diseased mucosa or polyps.
In Plain Language
deep sinus disease surgery
Clinical Context
Comprehensive surgical management of sphenoid disease including polyposis, inflammatory disease, or tumor. Requires careful dissection to avoid injury to optic nerve and carotid artery.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.07 |
| Total RVU | 7.07 |
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 7.07, this code ranks in the 46th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31051?
CPT 31051 (Sphenoid sinus surgery) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration and treatment of the sphenoid sinus with extensive tissue management, including removal of diseased mucosa or polyps.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31051?
The work RVU for CPT 31051 is 7.07. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Rhinology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31051 used?
Comprehensive surgical management of sphenoid disease including polyposis, inflammatory disease, or tumor. Requires careful dissection to avoid injury to optic nerve and carotid artery.
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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.