- Laceration or wound repair codes are reported based on the type of repair (simple, intermediate, complex), the anatomic location, and the length
- The length of multiple lacerations of the same type and defined as the same anatomic location are summed and reported with a single CPT code.
- For multiple lacerations of either different types or defined as different anatomic locations, report a code for each laceration.
- CPT updated the definitions of intermediate and complex repair in the 2020 book.
In this article, we will look at repair (closure) CPT® codes in the 12001-13160 range.
According to CPT®:
“Use the codes in this section to designate wound closure utilizing sutures, stapes or tissue adhesives (eg, 2-cyanoacrylate), either singly or in combination with each other or in combination with adhesive strips. Wound closure utilizing adhesive strips as the sole repair material should be coded using the appropriate E/M code.”
“Simple repair is used when the wound is superficial; eg, involving primarily epidermis or dermis, or subcutaneous tissues without significant involvement of deeper structures, and requires simple one layer closure. This includes local anesthesia and chemical or electrocauterization of wounds not closed.”
Simple repairs are defined by two location groupings and size in centimeters
- Scalp, neck, external genitalia, axillae, trunk, and/or extremities, including hands and feet
- Face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips and/or mucous membranes
Login to see the rest of this article
Watch Betsy’s 60 minute on-demand webinar “Coding Skin Procedures” for a review of coding common skin procedures and correct use of modifiers with multiple procedures. Webinars are free for members. Not a member? Find out how you can watch too!