How To Use CPT Code 41510

CPT 41510 describes a surgical procedure known as tongue-lip adhesion (TLA), which involves suturing the tongue to the lower lip to treat micrognathia, a condition characterized by underdeveloped jaw tissue. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 41510?

CPT 41510 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure known as tongue-lip adhesion (TLA). This procedure involves suturing the tongue to the lower lip to treat micrognathia, a condition where the jaw is small and grows in an unbalanced fashion. By adhering the tongue to a portion of the lip, the surgeon aims to surgically treat the underdeveloped alveolar tissue of the jaw and maintain a patent airway.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 41510 is not available. However, tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) is a surgical procedure where the surgeon sutures the tongue to the lower lip to treat micrognathia and maintain a patent airway.

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins the procedure by making an incision in the lower lip.
2. Multiple stitching techniques are employed to suture the tongue to a portion of the lower lip.
3. By pulling the tongue base forward, the surgeon opens the oropharyngeal airway space.
4. This procedure helps to treat micrognathia by surgically addressing the underdeveloped alveolar tissue of the jaw.
5. The surgeon ensures that the tongue is securely adhered to the lip to maintain a patent airway.
6. After completing the suturing, the incision in the lower lip is closed.
7. Post-operative care and monitoring are provided to ensure proper healing and recovery.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 41510 is performed to treat micrognathia, a condition characterized by a small and unbalanced jaw. The procedure is suitable for patients who require surgical intervention to address the underdeveloped alveolar tissue of the jaw and maintain a patent airway. The surgeon must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for tongue-lip adhesion based on their clinical judgment.

5. When to use CPT code 41510

CPT code 41510 should be used when a surgeon performs tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) to treat micrognathia and maintain a patent airway. It is important to note that this code should only be used for the specific procedure described and not for other similar procedures or interventions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 41510, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of micrognathia
• Rationale for performing tongue-lip adhesion
• Description of the surgical technique used
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the incision and suturing
• Post-operative care instructions
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 41510, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description of tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) for micrognathia. It is important to accurately document and code the procedure to avoid any billing discrepancies. Additionally, it is crucial to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company.

8. Historical information

CPT 41510 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) on an infant with micrognathia to address the underdeveloped alveolar tissue of the jaw and maintain a patent airway.
2. In a second case, a patient with severe micrognathia undergoes tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) to improve their breathing and jaw development.
3. A surgeon performs tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) on a child with micrognathia to address their underdeveloped jaw and ensure a patent airway.
4. In another instance, a teenager with micrognathia undergoes tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) to correct their jaw alignment and improve their overall facial structure.
5. A surgeon performs tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) on an adult with micrognathia to alleviate their breathing difficulties and enhance their quality of life.
6. In a different case, a patient with micrognathia undergoes tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) to address their jaw deformity and improve their oral function.
7. A surgeon performs tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) on a young child with micrognathia to promote proper jaw growth and development.
8. In another instance, a patient with micrognathia undergoes tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) to address their jaw misalignment and improve their facial aesthetics.
9. A surgeon performs tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) on an infant with micrognathia to ensure a patent airway and support their overall growth and development.
10. In a final case, a child with micrognathia undergoes tongue-lip adhesion (TLA) to address their jaw abnormalities and improve their oral function.