21100 Maxillofacial fixation
Also known as: maxfacial fixation, jaw wiring
Maxillofacial fixation involving placement of wires, plates, or other devices to stabilize jaw fractures or dental occlusal relationships.
In Plain Language
Wiring the jaw together; Stabilizing broken jaw bones; Holding teeth in proper position
Clinical Context
Used for mandibular or maxillary fractures, bite correction, or dentofacial deformities. First step in many complex jaw reconstructions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.61 |
| Total RVU | 4.61 |
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 4.61, this code ranks in the 32nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21100?
CPT 21100 (Maxillofacial fixation) is a Surgery code. Maxillofacial fixation involving placement of wires, plates, or other devices to stabilize jaw fractures or dental occlusal relationships.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21100?
The work RVU for CPT 21100 is 4.61. This code is primarily used by Oral Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21100 used?
Used for mandibular or maxillary fractures, bite correction, or dentofacial deformities. First step in many complex jaw reconstructions.
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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.