How To Use CPT Code 21330

CPT 21330 describes the open treatment of a nasal fracture that is complicated, with internal and/or external skeletal fixation. 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 21330?

CPT 21330 is used to describe the open treatment of a nasal fracture that is complicated, with the use of internal and/or external skeletal fixation. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs a procedure to realign and restore the function and cosmetic appearance of a complex nasal fracture.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 21330 is: ‘Open treatment of nasal fracture complicated, with internal and/or external skeletal fixation.’

3. Procedure

During the procedure for CPT 21330, the healthcare provider begins by making an incision over the fracture and into the cartilage to visualize the bone. They then expose the bone segments and use surgical tools to move the bone, cartilage, and any bone fragments back into their appropriate positions. If necessary, the provider may place a suture through the cartilage or septum to keep the bone in position. They may also use a mini drill to create holes in the bone and anchor it with wires for internal fixation. Alternatively, an external fixation device may be applied. The provider then closes the incision in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 21330 is used for patients who have a complex nasal fracture that requires open treatment with internal and/or external skeletal fixation. This procedure is performed to restore the function and cosmetic appearance of the nose. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 21330

CPT code 21330 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an open treatment of a nasal fracture that is complicated, using internal and/or external skeletal fixation. This code should not be reported simultaneously with CPT code 30520, as reshaping the nasal septum may be considered part of the fracture treatment.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 21330, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a complex nasal fracture
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of internal and/or external skeletal fixation
• Date of the procedure
• Incision site and length
• Specific steps taken during the procedure, such as bone realignment and fixation
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 21330, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a complex nasal fracture that requires open treatment with internal and/or external skeletal fixation. It is important to review the payer’s policies regarding reporting CPT code 30520 alongside CPT 21330, as they may consider reshaping the nasal septum to be part of the fracture treatment. Be sure to follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 21330 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs an open treatment of a nasal fracture with internal fixation using wires.
2. A patient with a complex nasal fracture undergoes open treatment with external fixation.
3. A healthcare provider performs an open treatment of a nasal fracture with internal and external fixation.
4. A patient with a complicated nasal fracture undergoes open treatment with internal fixation using screws.
5. A healthcare provider performs an open treatment of a nasal fracture with external fixation using a splint.
6. A patient with a complex nasal fracture undergoes open treatment with internal and external fixation using plates and screws.
7. A healthcare provider performs an open treatment of a nasal fracture with internal fixation using a mini drill.
8. A patient with a complicated nasal fracture undergoes open treatment with external fixation using a halo device.
9. A healthcare provider performs an open treatment of a nasal fracture with internal and external fixation using wires and a splint.
10. A patient with a complex nasal fracture undergoes open treatment with internal and external fixation using screws and a halo device.