31081 Removal of frontal sinus
Also known as: frontal sinus obliteration with orbital decompression, osteoplastic with decomp
Removal of frontal sinus mucosa with obliteration and orbital decompression, indicating more extensive surgery addressing orbital compartment syndrome or optic nerve compression.
In Plain Language
forehead sinus closure with eye pressure relief
Clinical Context
Frontal sinus obliteration combined with orbital decompression for orbital complications of sinus disease, mucopyocele, or cavernous sinus thrombosis risk.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.84 |
| Total RVU | 13.84 |
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 13.84, this code ranks in the 70th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31081?
CPT 31081 (Removal of frontal sinus) is a Surgery code. Removal of frontal sinus mucosa with obliteration and orbital decompression, indicating more extensive surgery addressing orbital compartment syndrome or optic nerve compression.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31081?
The work RVU for CPT 31081 is 13.84. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Rhinology, Orbital Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31081 used?
Frontal sinus obliteration combined with orbital decompression for orbital complications of sinus disease, mucopyocele, or cavernous sinus thrombosis risk.
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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.