64721 Carpal tunnel surgery
Also known as: carpal tunnel release, CTR, median nerve decompression
Surgical decompression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel region of the wrist to relieve compression and restore normal nerve conduction. Standard treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
In Plain Language
wrist surgery to relieve nerve pressure; carpal tunnel release
Clinical Context
First-line surgical treatment for moderate to severe carpal tunnel syndrome when conservative management fails. Indicated for median nerve compression causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.85 |
| Total RVU | 4.85 |
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 4.85, this code ranks in the 33rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 64721?
CPT 64721 (Carpal tunnel surgery) is a Surgery code. Surgical decompression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel region of the wrist to relieve compression and restore normal nerve conduction. Standard treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 64721?
The work RVU for CPT 64721 is 4.85. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 64721 used?
First-line surgical treatment for moderate to severe carpal tunnel syndrome when conservative management fails. Indicated for median nerve compression causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand.
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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.