CPT® Code 41017

The procedure described by CPT® Code 41017 involves the extraoral incision and drainage of an abscess, cyst, or hematoma located in the submandibular space of the floor of the mouth. This area encompasses several deep fascial spaces, including the sublingual, submental, submandibular, and masticator spaces, which are situated around the mandible, or lower jaw. The sublingual space is positioned beneath the tongue, while the submental space is found centrally beneath the chin. The submandibular space extends from the hyoid bone to the mucosal layer of the floor of the mouth, bordered anteriorly and laterally by the mandible and inferiorly by the superficial layer of deep cervical fascia. The masticator space is defined by a split in the superficial cervical fascia that encases the ramus of the mandible and associated muscles. The procedure typically employs a submandibular approach, which involves incising through the skin and subcutaneous tissue to access the submandibular space. Depending on the specific area affected, further dissection may be required to reach the sublingual, submental, or masticator spaces. The abscess, cyst, or hematoma is then exposed, opened, and drained, with any loculations or blood clots addressed as necessary. The placement of drains may also be performed to facilitate proper healing and drainage.