How To Use CPT Code 21110

CPT code 21110 describes the application of an interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation, including the removal of the device if necessary. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 21110?

CPT 21110 is used to describe the application of an interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation. This code is used when a healthcare provider applies an arch bar, which is a device used to stabilize the jaw or teeth following oral surgery, to the patient’s maxillary and mandibular arches. The arch bars are secured to the dentition with 24-gauge wires.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 21110 is: ‘Application of interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation, includes removal. (For removal of interdental fixation by another individual, see 20670 – 20680)’

3. Procedure

When performing CPT 21110, the healthcare provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient. The provider then applies arch bars to the patient’s maxillary and mandibular arches. These arch bars are specifically designed to follow the natural arch or curve of the teeth. The arch bars are secured to the dentition using 24-gauge wires. This procedure promotes stability of the jaw or teeth following oral surgery.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 21110 is used for the application of an interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation. This procedure is typically performed in cases such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where repositioning of the upper and lower jaws is necessary. The interdental fixation device, in this case, helps to stabilize the area while the patient is healing. It is important to note that CPT 21110 includes the removal of the interdental fixation device if necessary.

5. When to use CPT code 21110

CPT code 21110 should be used when a healthcare provider applies an interdental fixation device, such as arch bars, for conditions other than fracture or dislocation. This code is appropriate when the device is used to stabilize the jaw or teeth following oral surgery, such as in maxillary mandibular advancement (MMA) surgery. It is important to note that CPT 21110 includes the removal of the interdental fixation device if necessary.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 21110, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the interdental fixation device
• Details of the procedure, including the application of the arch bars and the use of 24-gauge wires
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 21110, ensure that the procedure involves the application of an interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation. It is important to note that CPT 21110 includes the removal of the interdental fixation device if necessary. If the removal is performed during the global period of the application, the appropriate modifier should be appended to the removal code. It is also important to follow the specific guidelines and requirements of the payer when reporting CPT 21110.

8. Historical information

CPT 21110 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 21110

Five similar codes to CPT 21110 include:

• CPT 20670: Removal of implant, superficial
• CPT 20680: Removal, under anesthesia, of external fixation system
• CPT 21112: Application of interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation, includes removal; with skeletal traction
• CPT 21114: Application of interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation, includes removal; with skeletal traction and intermaxillary fixation
• CPT 21116: Application of interdental fixation device for conditions other than fracture or dislocation, includes removal; with skeletal traction, intermaxillary fixation, and wiring of teeth

9. Examples

1. A patient with obstructive sleep apnea undergoes maxillary mandibular advancement (MMA) surgery. The surgeon applies arch bars to the patient’s maxillary and mandibular arches to promote stability during the healing process.
2. A patient undergoes orthognathic surgery to correct a malocclusion. The surgeon applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the jaw during the healing process.
3. A patient sustains a traumatic injury to the jaw and requires surgical intervention. The surgeon applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the fractured jaw during the healing process.
4. A patient undergoes orthodontic treatment that requires the repositioning of the upper and lower jaws. The orthodontist applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the jaws during the treatment process.
5. A patient with a congenital jaw deformity undergoes corrective surgery. The surgeon applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the jaws during the healing process.
6. A patient with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction undergoes surgical intervention. The surgeon applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the jaw during the healing process.
7. A patient with a severe overbite undergoes orthognathic surgery. The surgeon applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the jaws during the healing process.
8. A patient with a severe underbite undergoes orthognathic surgery. The surgeon applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the jaws during the healing process.
9. A patient with a jaw deformity due to a genetic condition undergoes corrective surgery. The surgeon applies interdental fixation devices, such as arch bars, to stabilize the jaws during the healing process.