21060 Remove jaw joint cartilage
Also known as: TMJ cartilage removal, synovectomy
Removal of articular cartilage from temporomandibular joint.
In Plain Language
removal of cartilage from jaw joint; jaw joint cartilage removal
Clinical Context
Removal of arthritic or damaged cartilage from TMJ to relieve pain and inflammation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.79 |
| Total RVU | 10.79 |
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 10.79, this code ranks in the 61st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21060?
CPT 21060 (Remove jaw joint cartilage) is a Surgery code. Removal of articular cartilage from temporomandibular joint.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21060?
The work RVU for CPT 21060 is 10.79. This code is primarily used by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21060 used?
Removal of arthritic or damaged cartilage from TMJ to relieve pain and inflammation.
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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.