21490 Optx tmprmand dislocation
Also known as: TMJ dislocation open reduction, surgical TMJ dislocation treatment
Open treatment of temporomandibular joint dislocation. Surgical reduction and stabilization of temporomandibular joint dislocation with intra-articular fixation or reconstruction, used for refractory or complicated cases.
In Plain Language
jaw joint surgery for persistent dislocation; surgical correction of jaw joint displacement
Clinical Context
Used for temporomandibular joint dislocations unresponsive to closed reduction, or with associated intra-articular injury, condylar fracture, or severe soft tissue damage. Surgical approach allows direct visualization and correction of underlying pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.63 |
| Total RVU | 12.63 |
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 12.63, 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 21490?
CPT 21490 (Optx tmprmand dislocation) is a Surgery code. Open treatment of temporomandibular joint dislocation. Surgical reduction and stabilization of temporomandibular joint dislocation with intra-articular fixation or reconstruction, used for refractory or complicated cases.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21490?
The work RVU for CPT 21490 is 12.63. This code is primarily used by Oral Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21490 used?
Used for temporomandibular joint dislocations unresponsive to closed reduction, or with associated intra-articular injury, condylar fracture, or severe soft tissue damage. Surgical approach allows direct visualization and correction of underlying pathology.
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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.