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Official Description

Tetanus toxoid adsorbed, for intramuscular use

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Tetanus toxoid adsorbed, for intramuscular use, is a vaccine designed to provide long-lasting immunity against the toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This vaccine works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies that specifically target and neutralize the tetanus toxin. The process of creating the toxoid involves culturing the bacteria in a controlled liquid medium, followed by purification and inactivation of the toxin, rendering it non-infectious while still capable of eliciting an immune response. As a result, the vaccine is classified as a toxoid rather than a live vaccine. It is important to note that immunity from the tetanus toxoid can diminish over time, which is why booster doses are recommended to maintain adequate protection. The administration of this vaccine is performed via intramuscular injection, ensuring that it is delivered effectively into the muscle tissue. This code, CPT® 90703, specifically reports the use of tetanus toxoid alone, distinguishing it from other related vaccines, such as diphtheria and tetanus toxoids (DT) adsorbed, which is reported under CPT® code 90702 for patients younger than 7 years. Both codes serve to identify the specific toxoid product utilized in immunization efforts.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The tetanus toxoid vaccine is indicated for the prevention of tetanus, a serious bacterial infection caused by the toxin produced by Clostridium tetani. The following conditions warrant the administration of this vaccine:

  • Prevention of Tetanus - The primary indication for administering the tetanus toxoid is to prevent tetanus infection, particularly in individuals who may be at risk due to potential exposure through wounds or injuries.
  • Booster Immunization - Individuals who have previously received the vaccine may require booster doses to maintain immunity, especially if it has been several years since their last vaccination.

2. Procedure

The procedure for administering the tetanus toxoid vaccine involves several key steps to ensure safety and efficacy:

  • Step 1: Patient Assessment - Prior to vaccination, the healthcare provider assesses the patient's medical history, including previous vaccinations and any potential contraindications to the vaccine.
  • Step 2: Preparation of the Vaccine - The healthcare provider prepares the tetanus toxoid vaccine by ensuring that it is stored correctly and is within its expiration date. The vaccine is drawn into a sterile syringe, taking care to avoid contamination.
  • Step 3: Site Selection - An appropriate site for intramuscular injection is selected, typically the deltoid muscle of the upper arm for adults and older children, or the anterolateral thigh for infants and young children.
  • Step 4: Administration of the Vaccine - The vaccine is administered via intramuscular injection, ensuring that the needle is inserted at the correct angle and depth to deliver the vaccine into the muscle tissue effectively.
  • Step 5: Post-Administration Care - After the injection, the healthcare provider monitors the patient for any immediate adverse reactions and provides post-vaccination instructions, including information on potential side effects and the importance of follow-up booster doses.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the administration of the tetanus toxoid vaccine, patients are typically advised to remain in the healthcare setting for a short period to monitor for any immediate allergic reactions. Common post-procedure care includes advising patients to apply a cool compress to the injection site to alleviate any discomfort or swelling. Patients may experience mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fatigue, which usually resolve within a few days. It is important for patients to keep track of their vaccination history and schedule any necessary booster doses as recommended by healthcare guidelines to ensure continued immunity against tetanus.

Short Descr TETANUS VACCINE IM
Medium Descr TETANUS TOXOID ADSORBED INTRAMUSCULAR
Long Descr Tetanus toxoid adsorbed, for intramuscular use
Related Drugs TETANUS TOXOID ABSORBED INJECTION
Status Code Excluded from Physician Fee Schedule by Regulation
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) O1G - Immunizations/Vaccinations
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Deleted
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2004-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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