40801 Drainage of mouth lesion
Also known as: oral abscess drainage, extensive drainage
Drainage of abscess or lesion in the mouth, likely a more extensive drainage or larger lesion than 40800.
In Plain Language
draining a larger infection or fluid pocket in the mouth
Clinical Context
Similar to 40800 but may involve larger lesion, multiple drainage sites, or more complex anatomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.56 |
| Total RVU | 2.56 |
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 2.56, this code ranks in the 18th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 40801?
CPT 40801 (Drainage of mouth lesion) is a Surgery code. Drainage of abscess or lesion in the mouth, likely a more extensive drainage or larger lesion than 40800.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 40801?
The work RVU for CPT 40801 is 2.56. This code is primarily used by Oral Surgery, General Surgery, ENT. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 40801 used?
Similar to 40800 but may involve larger lesion, multiple drainage sites, or more complex anatomy.
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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.