D4273 Dental Code Narrative
The D4273 dental code is a critical component of dental billing and clinical documentation. It refers to the procedure of “placement of a biologic scaffold to aid in soft and hard tissue regeneration and stabilization for implant placement”. This code is often used in advanced periodontal and implant dentistry, where tissue regeneration is necessary to ensure the success of dental implants or other restorative procedures.
The D4273 code is not just a billing tool; it represents a sophisticated dental procedure that requires a deep understanding of tissue biology, surgical techniques, and patient care. This article will explore the D4273 dental code in detail, providing a comprehensive narrative report template, real-world examples, and insights into its integration with ICD-10 codes.
D4273 Dental Code Narrative Report Template
A well-structured narrative report is essential for accurately documenting the D4273 procedure. Below is a detailed template that dental professionals can use to ensure compliance and clarity:
Patient Information
- Name: [Patient’s Full Name]
- Date of Birth: [MM/DD/YYYY]
- Date of Procedure: [MM/DD/YYYY]
- Dental Provider: [Provider’s Name and Credentials]
Clinical History
- Chief Complaint: [Patient’s primary concern, e.g., “Missing tooth in the lower left quadrant”]
- Medical History: [Relevant medical conditions, medications, allergies]
- Dental History: [Previous treatments, surgeries, or implants]
Diagnostic Findings
- Clinical Examination: [Description of soft and hard tissue condition]
- Radiographic Findings: [X-rays, CT scans, or 3D imaging results]
- Diagnosis: [Specific condition requiring D4273, e.g., “Severe bone loss in the mandibular left quadrant”]
Procedure Details
- Anesthesia: [Type and dosage used]
- Surgical Technique: [Step-by-step description of the procedure]
- Materials Used: [Type of biologic scaffold, membranes, or grafts]
- Post-Operative Instructions: [Care guidelines provided to the patient]
Outcome and Follow-Up
- Immediate Outcome: [Tissue response, stability, and any complications]
- Follow-Up Plan: [Scheduled appointments, monitoring, and next steps]
D4273 Dental Code Narrative Example
To better understand how the D4273 code is applied in practice, here’s a detailed example:
Patient Information
- Name: John Doe
- Date of Birth: 05/15/1980
- Date of Procedure: 10/10/2023
- Dental Provider: Dr. Jane Smith, DDS
Clinical History
- Chief Complaint: “I lost a tooth in the lower left jaw, and my dentist said I need an implant.”
- Medical History: Hypertension, controlled with medication. No known allergies.
- Dental History: Previous root canal treatment on tooth #19. No history of periodontal disease.
Diagnostic Findings
- Clinical Examination: Significant bone loss in the mandibular left quadrant, inadequate soft tissue for implant placement.
- Radiographic Findings: CBCT scan revealed a 5mm vertical bone defect in the area of tooth #19.
- Diagnosis: Severe alveolar bone loss requiring tissue regeneration prior to implant placement.
Procedure Details
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia administered (2% Lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine).
- Surgical Technique: A full-thickness flap was elevated, and the defect was debrided. A collagen membrane and bovine-derived xenograft were placed to stabilize the area.
- Materials Used: Collagen membrane (BioMend®) and bovine-derived xenograft (Bio-Oss®).
- Post-Operative Instructions: Patient advised to avoid chewing on the affected side, maintain oral hygiene, and take prescribed antibiotics.
Outcome and Follow-Up
- Immediate Outcome: Successful placement of the biologic scaffold with no complications.
- Follow-Up Plan: Patient scheduled for a 2-week post-op check-up and implant placement in 6 months.
D4273 Dental Code and ICD-10 Integration
The D4273 dental code is often paired with specific ICD-10 codes to justify the medical necessity of the procedure. Below is a table of common ICD-10 codes associated with D4273:
| ICD-10 Code | Description |
|---|---|
| K08.1 | Loss of teeth due to trauma |
| K08.2 | Atrophy of the alveolar ridge |
| K08.8 | Other specified disorders of teeth and jaw |
| K08.9 | Disorder of teeth and jaw, unspecified |
| K10.8 | Other specified diseases of the jaws |
For example, if a patient has severe bone loss due to trauma (K08.1), the D4273 procedure would be justified to regenerate the tissue for implant placement.
D4273 Dental Code Description and Clinical Significance
The D4273 code is used for procedures involving the placement of a biologic scaffold to aid in tissue regeneration. This is often necessary in cases of:
- Severe bone loss due to periodontal disease or trauma.
- Inadequate soft tissue for implant placement.
- Ridge augmentation to improve the success of restorative procedures.
The biologic scaffold acts as a framework for new tissue growth, promoting both soft and hard tissue regeneration. This procedure is critical for ensuring the long-term success of dental implants and other restorative treatments.
FAQs About D4273 Dental Code
1. What is the D4273 dental code used for?
The D4273 code is used for the placement of a biologic scaffold to aid in tissue regeneration for implant placement or other restorative procedures.
2. Is D4273 covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance provider. Documentation of medical necessity, including ICD-10 codes, is essential for reimbursement.
3. How long does the D4273 procedure take?
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
4. What materials are used in D4273 procedures?
Common materials include collagen membranes, bovine-derived xenografts, and synthetic scaffolds.
Conclusion
The D4273 dental code is a vital tool for documenting and billing advanced tissue regeneration procedures. By understanding its narrative requirements, clinical applications, and ICD-10 integration, dental professionals can ensure accurate documentation and optimal patient care.
Additional Resources
- American Dental Association (ADA): www.ada.org
- International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10): www.who.int
- Journal of Periodontology: www.joponline.org
