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Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Unblock $950 for Genioglossus Advancement

Published on Sun Jun 07, 2009

Proper coding should make this radical OSA treatment reimbursable. Coders have dealt with denials of treatments for obstructive sleep apnea for years. Recently, the American Academy of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery sent letters to Wisconsin Physician Services and Anthem Blue Cross regarding their coverage policies for mandibular segmental osteotomy with genioglossus advancement (21199, Osteotomy, mandible, segmental; with genioglossus advancement) when performed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Serious Condition, Radical Treatment Obstructive sleep apnea (327.23, Organic sleep apnea; obstructive sleep apnea [adult] [pediatric]) describes a blockage of the upper airway that causes the patient to be unable to breathe. One of the ways an ENT can alleviate this potentially life-threatening condition is with genioglossus advancement. The surgeon creates a small bone window in the front of the lower jaw, and then pulls the tendons that attach the front of the tongue to the jaw forward onto a bone fragment. [...]
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