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Guest
#1 Posted : Friday, December 9, 2016 2:28:37 PM(UTC)
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Guest

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Hello,

I am looking for either 1) a modifier for procedure code D7889 for a removable oral appliance to treat TMJ or 2) a different code.

I submitted a claim using CDT D7889 but it was denied stating it needed a modifier. The appliance facilitates movement but does not reposition the jaw so I don't think D7880 applies.
courtneydsnow
#2 Posted : Friday, December 9, 2016 3:38:46 PM(UTC)
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courtneydsnow

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Hi guest!

Great question, Basically, the code that was commonly used for YEARS for TMD appliance (S8262) was retired from the coding system all together last June. Their reason for retiring it was there is already another code that can be used for TMD appliances.

So - what we are finding is that the code that is most commonly accepted by medical insurers currently for TMD appliances since the S8262 discontinuation last June is D7880. However, some insurers are accepting the other codes listed below as well:

D7880 - occlusal orthotic device, by report

D7899 - unspecified TMD therapy, by report

Or, if the medical insurer says they won’t process the “D” codes (most will these days, but you will run into a few that won’t), you can try:

E1399 - Durable medical equipment, miscellaneous
21299 - Unlisted craniofacial and maxillofacial procedure
21499 - Unlisted musculoskeletal procedure, head

A narrative report explaining the treatment accompanying the claim is recommended since they are all "by report", “unlisted”, or "miscellaneous" codes.

It may be best to look up the insurers medical policy for Temporomandibular disorders and check the coding section of the policy to see if a specific code they accept is listed. For example, Aetna's medical policy for Temporomandibular disorders lists D7880 as an accepted HCPCS code is criteria is met: http://www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data/1_99/0028.html

Hope this helps, have a great day!
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