CPT® Code 21344

Open treatment of complicated (eg, comminuted or involving posterior wall) frontal sinus fracture, via coronal or multiple approaches

The procedure described by CPT® Code 21344 involves the open treatment of a complicated frontal sinus fracture. A frontal sinus fracture is a break in the bone surrounding the frontal sinus, which is located in the forehead area. Complicated fractures may include comminuted fractures, where the bone is shattered into multiple pieces, or fractures that involve the posterior wall of the sinus. The open treatment approach allows the physician to directly access the fracture site through surgical incisions, which can be made via a coronal approach or other multiple approaches as necessary. During the procedure, the physician removes the sinus mucosa, which is the lining of the sinus, and may perform ablation of the sinus to reduce the risk of postoperative infections. If the fracture extends to the posterior wall, the physician may need to remove the bony wall and plug the nasofrontal duct to ensure proper healing and function. The stabilization of the fracture is achieved using various fixation methods, including screws, plates, and wires, to secure the bone fragments in their correct positions. Finally, all surgical incisions are meticulously closed to promote healing and minimize scarring.