60520 Removal of thymus gland
Also known as: thymectomy, thymus removal, partial thymectomy
Surgical removal of the thymus gland through a partial or complete thymectomy, typically for myasthenia gravis, thymoma, or hyperplasia.
In Plain Language
removal of thymus gland; surgery to treat myasthenia gravis
Clinical Context
Performed for myasthenia gravis (especially in younger patients), thymoma, thymic hyperplasia, and myasthenic syndrome. Improves symptoms in 80-90% of myasthenia gravis patients when performed early.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.73 |
| Total RVU | 16.73 |
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 16.73, this code ranks in the 76th 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 60520?
CPT 60520 (Removal of thymus gland) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of the thymus gland through a partial or complete thymectomy, typically for myasthenia gravis, thymoma, or hyperplasia.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 60520?
The work RVU for CPT 60520 is 16.73. This code is primarily used by cardiothoracic surgery, general surgery, neurology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 60520 used?
Performed for myasthenia gravis (especially in younger patients), thymoma, thymic hyperplasia, and myasthenic syndrome. Improves symptoms in 80-90% of myasthenia gravis patients when performed early.
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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.