2025 CPT code 21740
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System Surgery Feed
Open repair of pectus excavatum or carinatum.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances, including but not limited to: 51 (Multiple Procedures), 59 (Distinct Procedural Service), 76 (Repeat Procedure), 78 (Unplanned Return to OR), and others as dictated by NCCI edits.
Medical necessity for pectus excavatum repair is typically established based on the severity of the deformity's impact on respiratory function, cardiac function, or the patient's overall well-being.Severe cases may warrant surgical intervention to correct the deformity and improve quality of life.
Thoracic surgeon performs the procedure.Pre-operative planning, surgical technique, post-operative care, and follow-up are the responsibility of the surgeon.
In simple words: This surgery fixes a sunken or protruding breastbone. The surgeon makes a cut, removes some cartilage, reshapes the breastbone, and uses metal to hold it in the correct position while it heals.
Reconstructive repair of pectus excavatum or carinatum, involving an open surgical approach.This procedure addresses congenital deformities of the chest wall, such as a sunken (pectus excavatum) or protruding (pectus carinatum) sternum.The surgeon makes a curvilinear incision, dissects through the tissue to reach the bone, removes the lower cartilages, performs a wedge osteotomy on the sternum, and uses wires and a steel bar to correct the deformity.The area is irrigated, bleeding is controlled, and the incision is closed.
Example 1: A 15-year-old presents with pectus excavatum causing significant cosmetic concern and mild shortness of breath.Open repair (21740) is performed to correct the deformity and improve respiratory function., A 22-year-old adult presents with pectus excavatum causing moderate chest pain and functional limitations. The surgeon opts for an open repair (21740) for correction of the deformity and relief of symptoms. , A 30 year old patient presents with pectus carinatum which is causing cosmetic concerns and mild dyspnea. Open surgical repair(21740) is performed to improve the patients chest wall appearance and respiratory function.
* Preoperative assessment including physical examination, imaging (chest X-ray, CT scan), and evaluation of respiratory function.* Operative report detailing the surgical technique, including the type of osteotomy performed, materials used (wires, steel bar), and any complications encountered.* Postoperative imaging to assess the correction of the deformity.* Documentation of the patient's recovery and any complications post-surgery.
** Always refer to the most current CPT and payer guidelines for accurate coding and reimbursement.This information is for guidance only and does not constitute medical advice.
- Revenue Code: P3D (MAJOR PROCEDURE, ORTHOPEDIC - OTHER)
- RVU: Information on RVUs varies by payer and location. Consult your local fee schedule for the most up-to-date information.
- Global Days : The global period for this procedure will depend on payer guidelines and may vary.Check your specific payer's policy for details.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
- Fee Schedule : Historical fee schedule data is not included here.Consult your local fee schedule for historical and current payment rates.
- Specialties:Thoracic Surgery, Cardiovascular Surgery, Pediatric Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center