41010 Incision of tongue fold
Also known as: frenum release, frenotomy, tongue tie release
Surgical incision of the lingual frenum (tissue connecting tongue to floor of mouth) for release or correction.
In Plain Language
cutting the tongue tie; releasing tongue restriction; frenum release surgery
Clinical Context
Used for ankyloglossia (tongue tie) or restricted lingual frenum causing functional impairment in speech, swallowing, or oral hygiene. Common in infants and children, also adults.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.08 |
| Total RVU | 1.08 |
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 1.08, this code ranks in the 5th percentile among Surgery codes — 7.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 41010?
CPT 41010 (Incision of tongue fold) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision of the lingual frenum (tissue connecting tongue to floor of mouth) for release or correction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 41010?
The work RVU for CPT 41010 is 1.08. This code is primarily used by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 41010 used?
Used for ankyloglossia (tongue tie) or restricted lingual frenum causing functional impairment in speech, swallowing, or oral hygiene. Common in infants and children, also adults.
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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.