31256 Exploration maxillary sinus
Also known as: endoscopic maxillary exploration, antral puncture endoscopy, maxillary ostium enlargement, endoscopic maxillary antrostomy, FESS maxillary, FESS maxillary antrostomy
Endoscopic exploration of the maxillary sinus via antral puncture or enlargement of maxillary ostium for drainage and disease evaluation.
In Plain Language
cheek sinus camera surgery
Clinical Context
Endoscopic evaluation and drainage of maxillary sinus with antral puncture or widened ostium creation for improved drainage and disease control.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.03 |
| Total RVU | 3.03 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.03, this code ranks in the 21st percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31256?
CPT 31256 (Exploration maxillary sinus) is a Surgery code. Endoscopic exploration of the maxillary sinus via antral puncture or enlargement of maxillary ostium for drainage and disease evaluation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31256?
The work RVU for CPT 31256 is 3.03. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Rhinology.
When is CPT 31256 used?
Endoscopic evaluation and drainage of maxillary sinus with antral puncture or widened ostium creation for improved drainage and disease control.
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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.