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Official Description

Secondary revision of orbitocraniofacial reconstruction

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 21275 refers to the procedure known as secondary revision of orbitocraniofacial reconstruction. This surgical intervention is performed when a patient requires a follow-up surgery to address previous reconstructive efforts involving the orbits and facial structures. The term 'orbitocraniofacial' encompasses the bones and tissues surrounding the eyes and the facial skeleton, indicating the complexity and precision required in such procedures. During this operation, the surgeon accesses the affected bones through various types of incisions, which may include approaches through the lower eyelid, eyebrow, or maxillary vestibule, depending on the specific anatomical considerations and the extent of the reconstruction needed. In this procedure, the surgeon may utilize grafts harvested from the patient's own body, such as from the hip, rib, or skull, to aid in the reconstruction process. The use of grafts is essential for filling any defects that may arise from repositioning the bones. The surgical technique involves the use of specialized instruments, including drills and saws, to create precise incisions in the orbitocraniofacial bones. Once the bones are repositioned to achieve the desired alignment and contour, they are secured in place using various fixation methods, such as wires, plates, and screws. Finally, the surgeon meticulously closes all incisions to promote optimal healing and aesthetic outcomes. This procedure is critical for restoring both function and appearance in patients who have undergone previous facial reconstructive surgeries.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The secondary revision of orbitocraniofacial reconstruction, represented by CPT® Code 21275, is indicated for patients who have previously undergone facial reconstructive surgery but require additional intervention to correct or enhance the results. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:

  • Previous Surgical Complications Patients may experience complications from prior surgeries, such as malpositioned bones or inadequate aesthetic outcomes, necessitating a secondary revision.
  • Trauma or Injury Individuals who have sustained facial trauma or injury may require reconstruction to restore the structural integrity and appearance of the orbits and facial features.
  • Congenital Deformities Patients born with congenital facial deformities may need further surgical intervention to improve function and aesthetics after initial corrective procedures.
  • Bone Defects The presence of bone defects due to previous surgeries or other medical conditions may require grafting and repositioning of the facial bones.

2. Procedure

The procedure for secondary revision of orbitocraniofacial reconstruction involves several critical steps to ensure successful outcomes. Each step is designed to address the specific needs of the patient while adhering to surgical best practices.

  • Step 1: Incision The surgeon begins by making an incision to access the affected orbitocraniofacial structures. This incision may be strategically placed through the lower eyelid, eyebrow, or maxillary vestibule, allowing for optimal visibility and access to the underlying bones.
  • Step 2: Bone Access Once the incision is made, the surgeon carefully dissects through the soft tissue to expose the bones of the orbit and face. This step is crucial for evaluating the previous surgical site and determining the necessary adjustments.
  • Step 3: Graft Harvesting If bone grafts are required, the surgeon will harvest graft material from the patient's own body, typically from the hip, rib, or skull. This autologous grafting is essential for ensuring compatibility and reducing the risk of rejection.
  • Step 4: Bone Repositioning The surgeon utilizes drills and saws to create precise incisions in the orbitocraniofacial bones. The bones are then repositioned to achieve the desired anatomical alignment and contour, addressing any previous malpositioning.
  • Step 5: Graft Placement If grafts have been harvested, they are placed into the recipient beds created during the repositioning of the bones. This step is vital for filling any defects and providing structural support to the reconstructed area.
  • Step 6: Fixation The repositioned bones and any grafts are secured in place using wires, plates, and/or screws. This fixation ensures stability during the healing process and helps maintain the desired position of the facial structures.
  • Step 7: Closure Finally, the surgeon meticulously closes all incisions, ensuring that the soft tissue is properly aligned to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring.

3. Post-Procedure

After the secondary revision of orbitocraniofacial reconstruction, patients can expect a recovery period that may vary based on the extent of the surgery and individual healing responses. Post-procedure care typically includes monitoring for any signs of complications, such as infection or excessive swelling. Patients are often advised to follow specific guidelines regarding activity restrictions, wound care, and pain management. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess healing progress and to ensure that the surgical outcomes meet the desired functional and aesthetic goals. Additionally, patients may receive instructions on how to care for the surgical site and when to resume normal activities, including any necessary physical therapy to aid in recovery.

Short Descr REVISION ORBITOFACIAL BONES
Medium Descr SECONDARY REVISION ORBITOCRANIOFACIAL RCNSTJ
Long Descr Secondary revision of orbitocraniofacial reconstruction
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 Device-intensive procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later; paid at adjusted rate.
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).
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
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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