How To Use CPT Code 21497

CPT 21497 describes the use of interdental wiring for conditions other than fractures in the jaw. 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 21497?

CPT 21497 is a code used to describe the application of interdental wiring for conditions in the jaw that do not involve fractures. This procedure is performed to immobilize the jaws and promote healing in cases such as temporomandibular joint dislocation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 21497 is: ‘Interdental wiring, for condition other than fracture.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for CPT 21497 involves the application of interdental wiring to immobilize the jaws. The patient is appropriately prepped and the area is anesthetized. The provider then applies the interdental wiring between the teeth to prevent movement of the jaws and allow for healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 21497 is used for conditions in the jaw that do not involve fractures. It is typically performed in cases such as temporomandibular joint dislocation, where immobilization of the jaws is necessary for healing. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 21497

CPT code 21497 should be used when interdental wiring is applied for conditions in the jaw that do not involve fractures. It is important to note that this code should not be used for fractures, as there are specific codes available for reporting fractures in the jaw.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 21497, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s condition and the need for interdental wiring
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the application of interdental wiring
• Any additional relevant information, such as anesthesia used
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 21497, ensure that the procedure is performed for a condition other than a fracture in the jaw. It is important to use the appropriate code for reporting fractures. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 21497 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 21497 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 21497

While there are no similar codes specifically related to interdental wiring for conditions other than fractures in the jaw, there are other codes available for reporting fractures and dislocations in the head. These codes range from 21315 to 21497 and cover various fracture and/or dislocation procedures on the head.

9. Examples

1. A patient with temporomandibular joint dislocation undergoes interdental wiring to immobilize the jaws and promote healing.
2. Interdental wiring is applied to a patient with a jaw condition that requires immobilization for proper healing.
3. A healthcare professional performs interdental wiring for a patient with a non-fracture jaw condition to prevent movement and aid in healing.
4. Interdental wiring is used to immobilize the jaws of a patient with a specific jaw condition that does not involve fractures.
5. A qualified healthcare professional applies interdental wiring for a patient with a jaw condition, ensuring proper immobilization for healing.
6. Interdental wiring is performed on a patient with a non-fracture jaw condition to promote healing and prevent movement of the jaws.
7. A provider applies interdental wiring to immobilize the jaws of a patient with a specific jaw condition that does not involve fractures.
8. Interdental wiring is used to aid in the healing process of a patient with a jaw condition that does not require fracture treatment.
9. A healthcare professional performs interdental wiring for a patient with a non-fracture jaw condition, ensuring proper immobilization for healing.
10. Interdental wiring is applied to a patient with a jaw condition that requires immobilization for proper healing and management.