64822 Sympathectomy ulnar artery
Also known as: ulnar artery sympathectomy, ulnar artery stripping
Surgical sympathectomy of the ulnar artery and its sympathetic innervation. Involves stripping nerve plexus around the ulnar artery for improved blood flow to the hand.
In Plain Language
ulnar artery nerve surgery; pinky side hand surgery
Clinical Context
Indicated for Raynaud's phenomenon or vascular insufficiency of the ulnar side of the hand. Often performed with radial artery sympathectomy for comprehensive hand coverage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.10 |
| Total RVU | 9.10 |
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 9.10, this code ranks in the 55th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 64822?
CPT 64822 (Sympathectomy ulnar artery) is a Surgery code. Surgical sympathectomy of the ulnar artery and its sympathetic innervation. Involves stripping nerve plexus around the ulnar artery for improved blood flow to the hand.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 64822?
The work RVU for CPT 64822 is 9.10. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Hand Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 64822 used?
Indicated for Raynaud's phenomenon or vascular insufficiency of the ulnar side of the hand. Often performed with radial artery sympathectomy for comprehensive hand coverage.
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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.