31087 Removal of frontal sinus
Also known as: frontal obliteration orbital/intracranial, comprehensive frontal surgery, complex osteoplastic
Removal of frontal sinus mucosa with obliteration and management of combined orbital and intracranial complications.
In Plain Language
extensive forehead sinus closure with brain and eye care
Clinical Context
Most complex frontal sinus obliteration addressing simultaneous orbital and intracranial complications requiring both orbital decompression and dural repair.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 14.21 |
| Total RVU | 14.21 |
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 14.21, this code ranks in the 71st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31087?
CPT 31087 (Removal of frontal sinus) is a Surgery code. Removal of frontal sinus mucosa with obliteration and management of combined orbital and intracranial complications.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31087?
The work RVU for CPT 31087 is 14.21. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Neurosurgery, Orbital Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31087 used?
Most complex frontal sinus obliteration addressing simultaneous orbital and intracranial complications requiring both orbital decompression and dural repair.
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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.