69955 Release facial nerve
Also known as: extended facial nerve decompression, facial nerve release petrous apex
Surgical decompression or release of the facial nerve within the temporal bone or petrous apex with extended dissection.
In Plain Language
surgery to relieve facial nerve pressure
Clinical Context
Used for traumatic injury, temporal bone fracture, or petrous apex lesion requiring decompression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 28.68 |
| Total RVU | 28.68 |
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 28.68, this code ranks in the 92nd percentile among Surgery codes — 3.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 69955?
CPT 69955 (Release facial nerve) is a Surgery code. Surgical decompression or release of the facial nerve within the temporal bone or petrous apex with extended dissection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 69955?
The work RVU for CPT 69955 is 28.68. This code is primarily used by neurotology, skull base surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 69955 used?
Used for traumatic injury, temporal bone fracture, or petrous apex lesion requiring decompression.
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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.