42720 incision and drainage absc phrngl ntraorl appr
Also known as: pharyngeal abscess drainage, abscess drainage
Surgical incision and drainage of a pharyngeal abscess using an intraoral approach through the mouth.
In Plain Language
drainage of throat abscess
Clinical Context
Intraoral drainage of retropharyngeal, lateral pharyngeal, or parapharyngeal abscess causing pharyngitis or airway symptoms.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.15 |
| Total RVU | 6.15 |
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 6.15, this code ranks in the 41st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 42720?
CPT 42720 (incision and drainage absc phrngl ntraorl appr) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision and drainage of a pharyngeal abscess using an intraoral approach through the mouth.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42720?
The work RVU for CPT 42720 is 6.15. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Dentistry. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 42720 used?
Intraoral drainage of retropharyngeal, lateral pharyngeal, or parapharyngeal abscess causing pharyngitis or airway symptoms.
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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.