42821 Remove tonsils and adenoids
Also known as: pediatric T&A, child tonsil and adenoid removal, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy under 12
Removal of both tonsils and adenoids (bilateral tonsilloadenoidectomy) via transoral approach in patients younger than 12 years.
In Plain Language
removal of tonsils and adenoids in children; throat gland surgery for kids
Clinical Context
Common pediatric procedure indicated for obstructive sleep apnea, recurrent infections, or adenotonsillar hypertrophy. Performed in young children with different anesthetic and surgical considerations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.25 |
| Total RVU | 4.25 |
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 4.25, this code ranks in the 29th 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 42821?
CPT 42821 (Remove tonsils and adenoids) is a Surgery code. Removal of both tonsils and adenoids (bilateral tonsilloadenoidectomy) via transoral approach in patients younger than 12 years.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42821?
The work RVU for CPT 42821 is 4.25. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Pediatric Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 42821 used?
Common pediatric procedure indicated for obstructive sleep apnea, recurrent infections, or adenotonsillar hypertrophy. Performed in young children with different anesthetic and surgical considerations.
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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.