60505 Explore parathyroid glands
Also known as: bilateral parathyroid exploration, four-gland parathyroid surgery, bilateral parathyroidectomy
Bilateral exploration of parathyroid glands with assessment of all four glands and removal of abnormal or hyperplastic tissue for primary hyperparathyroidism management.
In Plain Language
surgery to examine all parathyroid glands; complete parathyroid gland evaluation and treatment
Clinical Context
Performed when preoperative imaging is inconclusive or when multiglandular disease is present or suspected. Allows intraoperative assessment of all four glands with selective removal of enlarged/abnormal glands.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 22.48 |
| Total RVU | 22.48 |
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 22.48, this code ranks in the 86th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 60505?
CPT 60505 (Explore parathyroid glands) is a Surgery code. Bilateral exploration of parathyroid glands with assessment of all four glands and removal of abnormal or hyperplastic tissue for primary hyperparathyroidism management.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 60505?
The work RVU for CPT 60505 is 22.48. This code is primarily used by endocrine surgery, general surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 60505 used?
Performed when preoperative imaging is inconclusive or when multiglandular disease is present or suspected. Allows intraoperative assessment of all four glands with selective removal of enlarged/abnormal glands.
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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.