21045 Extensive jaw surgery
Also known as: mandibular reconstruction, jaw reconstruction
Extensive surgical reconstruction of mandibular bone or surrounding tissues.
In Plain Language
major surgery to rebuild lower jaw; extensive jaw bone reconstruction
Clinical Context
Performed for large mandibular defects requiring complex reconstruction with flaps or grafts.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.91 |
| Total RVU | 17.91 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 17.91, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21045?
CPT 21045 (Extensive jaw surgery) is a Surgery code. Extensive surgical reconstruction of mandibular bone or surrounding tissues.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21045?
The work RVU for CPT 21045 is 17.91. This code is primarily used by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Plastic Surgery, Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21045 used?
Performed for large mandibular defects requiring complex reconstruction with flaps or grafts.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.