31825 Repair of windpipe defect
Also known as: tracheal defect repair, tracheal patch repair
Surgical repair of a tracheal defect using more advanced techniques including patch grafting, flap advancement, or other reconstructive procedures to address the defect.
In Plain Language
windpipe patch repair; tracheal opening reconstruction
Clinical Context
Used for larger tracheal defects, post-pneumonectomy complications, or defects requiring material augmentation with grafts or flaps for adequate closure.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.89 |
| Total RVU | 6.89 |
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 6.89, this code ranks in the 45th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31825?
CPT 31825 (Repair of windpipe defect) is a Surgery code. Surgical repair of a tracheal defect using more advanced techniques including patch grafting, flap advancement, or other reconstructive procedures to address the defect.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31825?
The work RVU for CPT 31825 is 6.89. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31825 used?
Used for larger tracheal defects, post-pneumonectomy complications, or defects requiring material augmentation with grafts or flaps for adequate closure.
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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.