CPT code 21740 represents surgical reconstruction of the chest wall to repair congenital deformities such as pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. This procedure is clinically significant because it can address functional impairments (respiratory and cardiac impact) and cosmetic concerns, and it is performed across pediatric and adult populations. Nationally, the code is relevant for payers managing coverage for corrective thoracic procedures and for facilities tracking surgical case mix and outcomes.

Key payers included in this analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will gain a concise clinical and billing profile of the procedure, including its service type and typical sites of service. The publication summarizes common billing modifiers associated with surgical services, highlights expected clinical contexts for use, and outlines what to expect in payer coverage discussions. It also provides benchmarking context and policy-oriented considerations applicable at the national level.

The piece is intended to help billing managers, surgeons, and policy analysts understand the code’s clinical scope, administrative considerations, and where to look for further payer-specific guidance. Data not available in the input are noted where applicable.