31239 Nsl/sinus endoscopy surgical dcr
Also known as: endoscopic DCR, lacrimal duct bypass, endoscopic tear duct surgery
Nasal and sinus endoscopic surgery with dacryocystorhinostomy, creating a new drainage pathway from the lacrimal sac to nasal cavity.
In Plain Language
tear duct opening surgery
Clinical Context
Endoscopic creation of drainage pathway for chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Avoids external incision and offers good visualization and success rates.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.81 |
| Total RVU | 8.81 |
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 8.81, this code ranks in the 54th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31239?
CPT 31239 (Nsl/sinus endoscopy surgical dcr) is a Surgery code. Nasal and sinus endoscopic surgery with dacryocystorhinostomy, creating a new drainage pathway from the lacrimal sac to nasal cavity.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31239?
The work RVU for CPT 31239 is 8.81. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Oculoplastics, Rhinology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 31239 used?
Endoscopic creation of drainage pathway for chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Avoids external incision and offers good visualization and success rates.
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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.