42820 Remove tonsils and adenoids
Also known as: T&A, tonsil and adenoid removal, tonsilloadenoidectomy, tonsillectomy under age 12, T&A pediatric, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy
Removal of both tonsils and adenoids (bilateral tonsilloadenoidectomy) via transoral approach without additional complications or advanced technique.
In Plain Language
removal of tonsils and adenoids; surgery to remove throat glands
Clinical Context
Indicated for obstructive sleep apnea, recurrent pharyngitis, adenotonsillar hypertrophy with airway compromise, or malignancy. One of the most common pediatric surgeries.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.11 |
| Total RVU | 4.11 |
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 4.11, this code ranks in the 28th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 42820?
CPT 42820 (Remove tonsils and adenoids) is a Surgery code. Removal of both tonsils and adenoids (bilateral tonsilloadenoidectomy) via transoral approach without additional complications or advanced technique.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42820?
The work RVU for CPT 42820 is 4.11. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 42820 used?
Indicated for obstructive sleep apnea, recurrent pharyngitis, adenotonsillar hypertrophy with airway compromise, or malignancy. One of the most common pediatric surgeries.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.