Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
RedactPHI
HIPAA-Compliant PHI Redaction
DetectICD10CM
ICD-10-CM Code Detection
Log in Register free account
1 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account

Official Description

Osteotomy, mandible, segmental; with genioglossus advancement

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 21199 involves a surgical intervention known as a segmental osteotomy of the mandible, specifically with the advancement of the genioglossus muscle. This procedure is performed to correct a localized deformity of the mandible, which is the lower jawbone. The term 'osteotomy' refers to the surgical cutting of bone, and in this case, it is segmental, meaning that a specific segment of the mandible is targeted for correction. The process begins with the physician making an incision over the area where the deformity is located. Following this, the surrounding tissue is carefully reflected to expose the bone segment that requires modification. To remove the deformed segment of bone, the surgeon utilizes various surgical instruments, including saws, drills, and osteotomes, which are specialized tools designed for cutting bone. Once the deformed segment is excised, the mandible is repositioned and stabilized using fixation devices such as wires, screws, metal plates, or an acrylic splint. This stabilization is crucial for ensuring proper healing and alignment of the jaw. Additionally, if the procedure includes the advancement of the genioglossus muscle, which is a muscle located at the base of the tongue, it is specifically coded under CPT® Code 21199. Finally, after the surgical modifications are completed, all incisions made during the procedure are meticulously closed to promote healing and minimize complications.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure indicated by CPT® Code 21199 is performed for specific conditions related to deformities of the mandible. These indications may include:

  • Localized Deformity of the Mandible The procedure is indicated for patients who present with a localized deformity of the mandible that may affect function, aesthetics, or both.
  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea In some cases, this procedure may be indicated for patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, where the advancement of the genioglossus muscle can help alleviate airway obstruction.
  • Malocclusion Patients with malocclusion, where the teeth do not align properly when the jaws are closed, may also benefit from this surgical correction.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 21199 involves several critical steps to ensure the successful correction of the mandibular deformity. Each step is detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Incision and Tissue Reflection The surgeon begins by making a precise incision over the area of the mandible that exhibits the deformity. This incision allows access to the underlying bone. The surrounding soft tissue is then carefully reflected to expose the bone segment that needs to be addressed, ensuring minimal damage to adjacent structures.
  • Step 2: Bone Segment Removal Once the bone segment is adequately exposed, the surgeon employs surgical instruments such as saws, drills, and osteotomes to remove the deformed segment of the mandible. This step requires precision to ensure that only the affected portion of the bone is excised while preserving the integrity of the surrounding bone.
  • Step 3: Genioglossus Muscle Advancement If indicated, the genioglossus muscle is advanced during this procedure. This involves repositioning the muscle to enhance airway patency, particularly beneficial for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The advancement is performed with careful attention to the muscle's function and attachment points.
  • Step 4: Stabilization of the Mandible After the bone segment has been removed and any necessary muscle adjustments made, the mandible is repositioned to its new alignment. The surgeon then stabilizes the mandible using fixation devices such as wires, screws, metal plates, or an acrylic splint. This stabilization is crucial for maintaining the new position of the mandible during the healing process.
  • Step 5: Closure of Incisions The final step involves the meticulous closure of all incisions made during the procedure. This is done to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection or complications. The surgeon ensures that the tissue layers are properly aligned and sutured to facilitate optimal recovery.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the segmental osteotomy of the mandible with genioglossus advancement is essential for recovery. Patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, and pain management strategies are implemented. Instructions regarding diet, activity restrictions, and oral hygiene are provided to ensure proper healing. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess the healing process and the effectiveness of the procedure. Patients may also be advised on the importance of avoiding strenuous activities that could jeopardize the stability of the mandible during the initial recovery phase. Overall, adherence to post-operative care guidelines is crucial for achieving the desired outcomes of the surgery.

Short Descr RECONSTR LWR JAW W/ADVANCE
Medium Descr OSTEOTOMY MANDIBLE SGMTL W/GENIOGLOSSUS ADVMNT
Long Descr Osteotomy, mandible, segmental; with genioglossus advancement
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) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
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 Non office-based surgical procedure added in CY 2008 or later; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P3D - Major procedure, orthopedic - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 161 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on bone
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.
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
GZ Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
Date
Action
Notes
2001-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2001.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"