64861 Repair of arm nerves
Also known as: brachial plexus repair, arm nerve plexus repair
Surgical repair of brachial plexus or major arm nerves with significant dissection and reconstruction required. Among the most complex nerve repair procedures.
In Plain Language
shoulder/arm nerve surgery; brachial plexus reconstruction
Clinical Context
Indicated for brachial plexus injuries from trauma, birth injury, or other causes causing upper extremity paralysis. Requires expertise in nerve reconstruction and often includes multiple repairs.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 20.37 |
| Total RVU | 20.37 |
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 20.37, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 64861?
CPT 64861 (Repair of arm nerves) is a Surgery code. Surgical repair of brachial plexus or major arm nerves with significant dissection and reconstruction required. Among the most complex nerve repair procedures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 64861?
The work RVU for CPT 64861 is 20.37. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 64861 used?
Indicated for brachial plexus injuries from trauma, birth injury, or other causes causing upper extremity paralysis. Requires expertise in nerve reconstruction and often includes multiple repairs.
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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.