21338 Open nasoethmoid fracture without fixation
Also known as: open nasoethmoid fracture, NE fracture repair
Open treatment of nasoethmoid fracture without skeletal fixation, involving surgical reduction of the fracture complex.
In Plain Language
Surgery for broken nose and forehead area
Clinical Context
Used for nasoethmoid fractures requiring operative treatment. Critical for preventing telecanthus and airway compromise.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.70 |
| Total RVU | 6.70 |
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 6.70, this code ranks in the 44th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21338?
CPT 21338 (Open nasoethmoid fracture without fixation) is a Surgery code. Open treatment of nasoethmoid fracture without skeletal fixation, involving surgical reduction of the fracture complex.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21338?
The work RVU for CPT 21338 is 6.70. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Maxillofacial Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21338 used?
Used for nasoethmoid fractures requiring operative treatment. Critical for preventing telecanthus and airway compromise.
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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.