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CPT®
21100

CPT® Code 21100

Official Description

Application of halo type appliance for maxillofacial fixation, includes removal (separate procedure)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 21100 involves the application of a halo-type appliance specifically designed for maxillofacial fixation. This type of device is crucial in stabilizing the facial structure, particularly in cases where there is a need for immobilization due to trauma, surgical intervention, or other medical conditions affecting the maxillofacial region. The halo appliance is secured to the patient's head using screws that penetrate the skull and are anchored to the maxilla, which is the upper jawbone. In instances where the patient does not have natural teeth, the procedure allows for the fitting of dentures to ensure proper attachment of the device. Importantly, this code encompasses both the application and the removal of the halo-type appliance, indicating that the entire process is considered a single procedure for coding and billing purposes.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The application of a halo-type appliance for maxillofacial fixation, as described by CPT® Code 21100, is indicated for various conditions that necessitate stabilization of the facial structure. These indications may include:

  • Facial Trauma: The procedure is often performed in cases of significant facial injuries that require immobilization to promote healing and prevent further damage.
  • Post-Surgical Stabilization: Following surgical interventions in the maxillofacial region, a halo appliance may be used to maintain the position of bones and soft tissues during the recovery process.
  • Congenital Anomalies: Patients with congenital facial deformities may require the use of a halo-type device to assist in the correction and stabilization of their facial structure.

2. Procedure

The procedure for applying a halo-type appliance involves several critical steps to ensure proper fixation and stability. Each step is essential for the successful application of the device.

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is positioned comfortably, and the area of application is cleaned and prepared to minimize the risk of infection. This may involve shaving hair in the area where the screws will be placed.
  • Step 2: Application of the Halo Device The halo-type appliance is carefully positioned on the patient's head. Screws are then inserted into the skull to secure the device firmly in place. The placement of these screws is critical, as they must be positioned to provide optimal stability while minimizing discomfort.
  • Step 3: Attachment to the Maxilla The device is also anchored to the maxilla, ensuring that the upper jaw is immobilized in conjunction with the skull. This step may involve additional adjustments to ensure a secure fit.
  • Step 4: Fitting for Dentures (if applicable) In cases where the patient has no natural teeth, dentures may be fitted to provide an additional point of attachment for the halo device. This ensures that the appliance remains securely in place throughout the treatment period.
  • Step 5: Final Adjustments and Securing Once all components are in place, final adjustments are made to ensure the device is comfortable and secure. The patient is monitored for any immediate complications before concluding the procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

After the application of the halo-type appliance, the patient will require monitoring to assess for any complications such as infection or discomfort. Instructions will be provided regarding care of the device, including how to maintain hygiene and when to seek medical attention if issues arise. The removal of the halo appliance is included in this procedure code, indicating that follow-up care will also involve the safe removal of the device once the stabilization period is complete. Recovery time may vary based on the underlying condition being treated, and follow-up appointments will be necessary to evaluate the healing process and determine the appropriate time for removal.
Short Descr MAXILLOFACIAL FIXATION
Medium Descr APPL HALO APPLIANCE MAXILLOFACIAL FIXATION SPX
Long Descr Application of halo type appliance for maxillofacial fixation, includes removal (separate procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P5B - Ambulatory procedures - musculoskeletal
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 33 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on nose, mouth and pharynx
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
58 Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78.
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Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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