60500 Explore parathyroid glands
Also known as: parathyroid exploration, parathyroid gland surgery, parathyroidectomy
Surgical exploration of the parathyroid glands, typically unilateral exploration with identification and palpation of glands to assess for hyperparathyroidism or locate abnormal glands.
In Plain Language
surgery to examine parathyroid glands; surgery for overactive parathyroid
Clinical Context
Performed for primary hyperparathyroidism to locate and remove adenomas or hyperplastic tissue. Can be unilateral (single-gland exploration) or bilateral (four-gland assessment) depending on imaging and intraoperative findings.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 15.21 |
| Total RVU | 15.21 |
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 15.21, this code ranks in the 73rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 60500?
CPT 60500 (Explore parathyroid glands) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of the parathyroid glands, typically unilateral exploration with identification and palpation of glands to assess for hyperparathyroidism or locate abnormal glands.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 60500?
The work RVU for CPT 60500 is 15.21. This code is primarily used by endocrine surgery, general surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 60500 used?
Performed for primary hyperparathyroidism to locate and remove adenomas or hyperplastic tissue. Can be unilateral (single-gland exploration) or bilateral (four-gland assessment) depending on imaging and intraoperative findings.
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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.