42825 Removal of tonsils
Also known as: tonsillectomy, bilateral tonsil removal
Removal of tonsils only (bilateral tonsilectomy) via transoral approach in patient 12 years or older.
In Plain Language
removal of both tonsils; throat gland removal surgery
Clinical Context
Indicated for recurrent streptococcal pharyngitis, peritonsillar abscess, obstructive sleep apnea, or malignancy. Commonly performed in older children and adults.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.42 |
| Total RVU | 3.42 |
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 3.42, this code ranks in the 24th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 42825?
CPT 42825 (Removal of tonsils) is a Surgery code. Removal of tonsils only (bilateral tonsilectomy) via transoral approach in patient 12 years or older.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42825?
The work RVU for CPT 42825 is 3.42. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 42825 used?
Indicated for recurrent streptococcal pharyngitis, peritonsillar abscess, obstructive sleep apnea, or malignancy. Commonly performed in older children and 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.