60271 Removal of thyroid
Also known as: thyroid lobectomy, hemithyroidectomy, unilateral thyroidectomy
Surgical removal of one lobe of the thyroid gland with or without removal of the isthmus, preserving the contralateral lobe for thyroid function.
In Plain Language
removal of one side of thyroid; single thyroid lobe removal
Clinical Context
Performed for solitary nodules, unilateral papillary cancer, Graves' disease, and benign thyroid disease affecting one lobe. Less likely to require thyroid hormone replacement than total thyroidectomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.18 |
| Total RVU | 17.18 |
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 17.18, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 60271?
CPT 60271 (Removal of thyroid) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of one lobe of the thyroid gland with or without removal of the isthmus, preserving the contralateral lobe for thyroid function.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 60271?
The work RVU for CPT 60271 is 17.18. This code is primarily used by endocrine surgery, general surgery, head and neck surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 60271 used?
Performed for solitary nodules, unilateral papillary cancer, Graves' disease, and benign thyroid disease affecting one lobe. Less likely to require thyroid hormone replacement than total thyroidectomy.
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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.