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The CPT® Code 21452 refers to the percutaneous treatment of a mandibular fracture utilizing external fixation. This procedure is specifically designed for cases where the mandible, or lower jawbone, has sustained a fracture that requires realignment and stabilization. The term "percutaneous" indicates that the treatment is performed through the skin, minimizing the need for larger incisions. In this procedure, radiographs, or X-rays, are obtained to confirm the presence and specifics of the fracture. The manipulation of the displaced fracture fragments is achieved through a small incision, where Kirschner wires, which are thin, pointed wires, are inserted into the mandible. These wires serve as tools to adjust and align the fractured bone segments accurately under fluoroscopic visualization, which provides real-time imaging during the procedure. Once the bone fragments are properly aligned, external fixation devices are applied to maintain stability and support the healing process of the mandible. This method is particularly beneficial as it allows for effective treatment of fractures while minimizing soft tissue damage and promoting quicker recovery times.
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The procedure described by CPT® Code 21452 is indicated for the treatment of specific conditions related to mandibular fractures. These indications include:
The procedure for CPT® Code 21452 involves several critical steps to ensure effective treatment of the mandibular fracture. These steps include:
After the completion of the procedure, post-operative care is essential for ensuring proper recovery. Patients may be monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or misalignment of the fracture. Pain management strategies will be implemented to address discomfort following the procedure. Additionally, follow-up appointments will be necessary to assess the healing process through further radiographs and to make any adjustments to the external fixation if required. Patients will also receive instructions regarding dietary modifications and activity restrictions to promote optimal healing of the mandible.
| Short Descr | PERQ TX MNDBLR FX XTRNL FIXJ | Medium Descr | PERCUTANEOUS TX MANDIBULAR FX W/EXTERNAL FIXJ | Long Descr | Percutaneous treatment of mandibular fracture, with external fixation | 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 | 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) | P5B - Ambulatory procedures - musculoskeletal | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 144 - Treatment, facial fracture or dislocation |
| 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). | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician |
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| 2025-01-01 | Changed | Short Description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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