21255 Reconstruct lower jaw bone
Also known as: mandibular revision, jaw revision surgery
Reconstruction of the lower jaw with revision or correction of previous surgical outcome, addressing malunion or inadequate initial correction.
In Plain Language
Revising previous jaw surgery; Correcting jaw surgery problems
Clinical Context
Used when prior mandibular reconstruction or orthognathic surgery resulted in inadequate correction or complications.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.00 |
| Total RVU | 18.00 |
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 18.00, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21255?
CPT 21255 (Reconstruct lower jaw bone) is a Surgery code. Reconstruction of the lower jaw with revision or correction of previous surgical outcome, addressing malunion or inadequate initial correction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21255?
The work RVU for CPT 21255 is 18.00. This code is primarily used by Orthognathic Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21255 used?
Used when prior mandibular reconstruction or orthognathic surgery resulted in inadequate correction or complications.
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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.