59871 Remove cerclage suture
Also known as: cerclage removal, suture removal
Removal of cervical cerclage suture placed previously for management of cervical incompetence during pregnancy.
In Plain Language
removing cervical stitch before labor
Clinical Context
Typically performed at 36-37 weeks gestation or earlier if preterm labor or rupture of membranes occurs.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.08 |
| Total RVU | 2.08 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.08, this code ranks in the 15th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 59871?
CPT 59871 (Remove cerclage suture) is a Surgery code. Removal of cervical cerclage suture placed previously for management of cervical incompetence during pregnancy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 59871?
The work RVU for CPT 59871 is 2.08. This code is primarily used by Obstetrics and Gynecology.
When is CPT 59871 used?
Typically performed at 36-37 weeks gestation or earlier if preterm labor or rupture of membranes occurs.
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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.