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CPT 42660: Salivary Duct Dilation and Catheterization
CPT code 42660 represents salivary duct dilation with catheter introduction, a targeted otolaryngology/oral surgery procedure used to diagnose and manage obstructive salivary gland conditions. Nationally, this code captures minimally invasive interventions that can relieve ductal obstruction, facilitate sialendoscopy access, or assist with contrast imaging during assessment of salivary gland pathology. Its proper use affects coding accuracy, facility billing, and care pathway tracking for patients with recurrent sialadenitis or ductal strictures.
Key payers covered in this analysis 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 what to expect in billing practice for this procedure. The publication outlines common benchmarks and reimbursement considerations, policy updates affecting outpatient otolaryngology procedures, and coding nuances that influence claim adjudication. Clinical context explains the procedure’s role in diagnosis and management of salivary duct disorders, while the policy and billing sections summarize payer practice patterns and documentation elements that commonly influence coverage and payment. Data not available in the input will be noted where applicable.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 42660 describes a procedure in which the provider dilates a salivary duct and introduces a catheter. The procedure may include injection of radiopaque dye to assist with visualization but the dye is optional.
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Service type: Duct dilation and catheterization of salivary duct
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Typical site of service: Procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic, ambulatory surgery center, or hospital outpatient department where minor otolaryngology or oral and maxillofacial procedures are performed.