60521 Removal of thymus gland
Also known as: extended thymectomy, total thymectomy with mediastinal dissection, thoracoscopic thymectomy
Thymectomy with removal of thymic tissue including mediastinal fat pad and regional lymph nodes, typically thoracoscopic or transcervical approach.
In Plain Language
complete thymus removal with surrounding tissue; minimally invasive thymus removal
Clinical Context
More extensive than basic thymectomy; removes additional mediastinal tissue to reduce disease recurrence. Commonly used for myasthenia gravis, particularly using thoracoscopic or robotic-assisted approach for reduced morbidity.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.70 |
| Total RVU | 18.70 |
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 18.70, this code ranks in the 80th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 60521?
CPT 60521 (Removal of thymus gland) is a Surgery code. Thymectomy with removal of thymic tissue including mediastinal fat pad and regional lymph nodes, typically thoracoscopic or transcervical approach.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 60521?
The work RVU for CPT 60521 is 18.70. This code is primarily used by cardiothoracic surgery, general surgery, thoracic surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 60521 used?
More extensive than basic thymectomy; removes additional mediastinal tissue to reduce disease recurrence. Commonly used for myasthenia gravis, particularly using thoracoscopic or robotic-assisted approach for reduced morbidity.
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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.