In simple words: This code covers making a temporary device to fill the hole in the mouth after surgery to remove part or all of the upper jawbone.The doctor takes a mold of the patient's mouth to create a custom-fit temporary replacement. This is often done while the patient is having radiation treatment or while their mouth is still healing.

This CPT code encompasses the creation of an impression and the preparation of a custom-made interim obturator prosthesis.An interim obturator is a temporary prosthetic device used to close the oral cavity after a portion or all of the maxilla (upper jawbone) has been surgically removed. The procedure involves the application of a molding material to the patient's intraoral structures to create an impression, which serves as the basis for fabricating the temporary prosthesis. This is typically done while the patient is undergoing radiotherapy or when wounds are still healing and the oral cavity hasn't yet fully reformed.The provider designs and prepares the prosthesis; it is not created by an outside laboratory.

Example 1: A patient undergoes a maxillectomy (surgical removal of part of the maxilla) for a cancerous tumor.While undergoing radiotherapy, the surgeon performs code 21079 to create an interim obturator prosthesis to close the resulting cavity, protecting the surgical site and improving comfort., A patient has a significant portion of their maxilla removed due to trauma. To facilitate healing and promote optimal function, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs code 21079 to create an interim obturator, providing a temporary closure and allowing for speech and swallowing while the patient awaits permanent reconstruction., Following a partial maxillectomy for a benign tumor, the patient requires an interim obturator to aid in healing and maintain function. The oral surgeon performs code 21079, fabricating a custom-fit prosthesis using an impression of the patient's remaining structures.

* Preoperative assessment, including imaging studies (e.g., CT scan) to delineate the extent of the resection.* Operative report detailing the procedure, including the materials used for the impression and fabrication of the prosthesis.* Postoperative assessment documenting the fit and function of the interim obturator.* Documentation of the patient's medical history, including any relevant comorbidities, allergies, and current medications.

** Consideration should be given to the specific needs of the patient, including the extent of the resection, the presence of associated conditions, and the patient's overall health status when determining the medical necessity and appropriateness of this code.