64742 Incision of facial nerve
Also known as: facial nerve surgery, facial nerve repair, Bell palsy surgery
Surgical incision and repair of the facial nerve (Cranial Nerve VII). May involve decompression, repair, or grafting to restore facial motor function.
In Plain Language
facial nerve surgery; face paralysis treatment
Clinical Context
Indicated for facial nerve injury or paralysis from trauma, Bell's palsy, or surgical injury. Surgery aims to restore facial motor function and expression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.68 |
| Total RVU | 6.68 |
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 6.68, this code ranks in the 44th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 64742?
CPT 64742 (Incision of facial nerve) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision and repair of the facial nerve (Cranial Nerve VII). May involve decompression, repair, or grafting to restore facial motor function.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 64742?
The work RVU for CPT 64742 is 6.68. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Otolaryngology, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 64742 used?
Indicated for facial nerve injury or paralysis from trauma, Bell's palsy, or surgical injury. Surgery aims to restore facial motor function and expression.
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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.