21421 Cltx palatal/max fracture wire fix
Also known as: palate fracture wire fixation, maxilla fracture closed reduction with wires
Closed treatment of palatal and maxillary fracture with wire fixation. Non-surgical reduction and stabilization of fractures of the hard palate and upper jaw using interdental or circumferential wiring techniques.
In Plain Language
upper jaw fracture repair with wires; palate fracture treatment with stabilization
Clinical Context
Used for stable palatal and maxillary fractures that can be managed without open surgery. Wire fixation stabilizes fragments and maintains occlusion during healing. Indicated for uncomplicated fractures with good bone contact.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.87 |
| Total RVU | 5.87 |
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 5.87, this code ranks in the 39th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21421?
CPT 21421 (Cltx palatal/max fracture wire fix) is a Surgery code. Closed treatment of palatal and maxillary fracture with wire fixation. Non-surgical reduction and stabilization of fractures of the hard palate and upper jaw using interdental or circumferential wiring techniques.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21421?
The work RVU for CPT 21421 is 5.87. This code is primarily used by Oral Surgery, Otolaryngology, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21421 used?
Used for stable palatal and maxillary fractures that can be managed without open surgery. Wire fixation stabilizes fragments and maintains occlusion during healing. Indicated for uncomplicated fractures with good bone contact.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.