69502 Mastoidectomy
Also known as: modified radical mastoidectomy, canal wall down mastoidectomy, MRM
Modified radical mastoidectomy involves surgical removal of mastoid air cells and disease with canal wall down (external auditory canal wall removal) to provide disease control.
In Plain Language
mastoid surgery with ear canal opening; creating a drainage pathway in the ear
Clinical Context
Used for recurrent or aggressive cholesteatoma, revision cases, or when canal wall up approach has failed. Creates a permanent mastoid cavity for drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.25 |
| Total RVU | 12.25 |
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 12.25, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 69502?
CPT 69502 (Mastoidectomy) is a Surgery code. Modified radical mastoidectomy involves surgical removal of mastoid air cells and disease with canal wall down (external auditory canal wall removal) to provide disease control.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 69502?
The work RVU for CPT 69502 is 12.25. This code is primarily used by otolaryngology, surgical otology, neurotology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 69502 used?
Used for recurrent or aggressive cholesteatoma, revision cases, or when canal wall up approach has failed. Creates a permanent mastoid cavity for drainage.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.