31085 Removal of frontal sinus
Also known as: extensive frontal obliteration, complex frontal surgery, advanced osteoplastic
Removal of frontal sinus mucosa with complete obliteration and extensive management including management of lateral or posterior wall complications.
In Plain Language
extensive forehead sinus closure
Clinical Context
Extensive frontal sinus surgery addressing multiple complications or revision of failed previous osteoplastic procedures with comprehensive cavity management.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 15.25 |
| Total RVU | 15.25 |
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 15.25, this code ranks in the 73rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31085?
CPT 31085 (Removal of frontal sinus) is a Surgery code. Removal of frontal sinus mucosa with complete obliteration and extensive management including management of lateral or posterior wall complications.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31085?
The work RVU for CPT 31085 is 15.25. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Rhinology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31085 used?
Extensive frontal sinus surgery addressing multiple complications or revision of failed previous osteoplastic procedures with comprehensive cavity 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.