21246 Reconstruction of jaw
Also known as: maxillary setback, Le Fort I setback
Reconstruction of the jaw with maxillary setback, moving the upper jaw backward to correct skeletal Class II malocclusion or maxillary protrusion.
In Plain Language
Moving upper jaw backward; Upper jaw recession surgery
Clinical Context
Used for maxillary protrusion, Class II malocclusion, or aesthetic improvement. Often combined with mandibular advancement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.60 |
| Total RVU | 12.60 |
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 12.60, this code ranks in the 67th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21246?
CPT 21246 (Reconstruction of jaw) is a Surgery code. Reconstruction of the jaw with maxillary setback, moving the upper jaw backward to correct skeletal Class II malocclusion or maxillary protrusion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21246?
The work RVU for CPT 21246 is 12.60. This code is primarily used by Orthognathic Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21246 used?
Used for maxillary protrusion, Class II malocclusion, or aesthetic improvement. Often combined with mandibular advancement.
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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.