31296 Nsl/sinus ndsc surgical frnt sinus
Also known as: endoscopic frontal surgery, frontal-focused ESS, frontal endoscopy
Nasal and sinus endoscopic surgery with specific management of the frontal sinus disease, drainage, or polyp removal.
In Plain Language
forehead sinus camera surgical treatment
Clinical Context
Endoscopic surgery focused on frontal sinus disease. Trans-ostial approach or extended ethmoidal access for frontal sinus management.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.02 |
| Total RVU | 3.02 |
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 3.02, 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 31296?
CPT 31296 (Nsl/sinus ndsc surgical frnt sinus) is a Surgery code. Nasal and sinus endoscopic surgery with specific management of the frontal sinus disease, drainage, or polyp removal.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31296?
The work RVU for CPT 31296 is 3.02. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Rhinology.
When is CPT 31296 used?
Endoscopic surgery focused on frontal sinus disease. Trans-ostial approach or extended ethmoidal access for frontal sinus 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.