August 2004 page 11b
Coding Consultation:Questions and Answers
Musculoskeletal System/Surgery, 21685, 31588 (Q&A)
Question
What is the intent of code 21685,
Hyoid myotomy and suspension, and how does
it differ from code 31588, Laryngoplasty, not
otherwise specified (eg, for burns, reconstruction
after partial laryngectomy)?
AMA Comment
Code 21685 was established to
report a procedure to enlarge the retrolingual/
hypopharyngeal airway to help correct sleep-disordered
breathing (obstructive sleep apnea syndrome).
Commonly described as hyoid myotomy
and suspension, this procedure is also described
as modified hyoid myotomy, modified hyoid
myotomy and suspension, and hyoid repositioning.
This procedure affects the functions...
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