21116 Injection jaw joint x-ray
Also known as: TMJ arthrography, joint injection x-ray
Injection of contrast material into the temporomandibular joint with radiographic imaging to visualize joint structures and assess joint pathology.
In Plain Language
Dye injection into jaw joint with imaging; X-ray of jaw joint after dye injection; Imaging test for jaw joint problems
Clinical Context
Diagnostic procedure for temporomandibular joint dysfunction, internal derangement, or degenerative disease. Performed in operative or fluoroscopy suite.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.79 |
| Total RVU | 0.79 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.79, this code ranks in the 3rd percentile among Surgery codes — 10.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21116?
CPT 21116 (Injection jaw joint x-ray) is a Surgery code. Injection of contrast material into the temporomandibular joint with radiographic imaging to visualize joint structures and assess joint pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21116?
The work RVU for CPT 21116 is 0.79. This code is primarily used by Oral Surgery, Radiology, Maxillofacial Surgery.
When is CPT 21116 used?
Diagnostic procedure for temporomandibular joint dysfunction, internal derangement, or degenerative disease. Performed in operative or fluoroscopy suite.
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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.