CPT code 21742 represents minimally invasive surgical reconstruction of the chest wall to correct congenital deformities such as pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. This code captures procedures performed through small incisions to restore chest wall contour and function. Nationally, these procedures are clinically significant for pediatric and young adult populations with symptomatic or cosmetically concerning deformities and are part of broader reconstructive thoracic surgical services.

Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context, typical sites of service, and the service type associated with CPT code 21742. The publication provides benchmarks where available, notes on payer coverage patterns, and policy considerations that influence authorization and billing for chest wall reconstruction.

This summary helps clinicians, billing professionals, and policy analysts understand the code's clinical purpose, expected care settings, and payer landscape on a national level. Data not available in the input is explicitly noted where relevant.