Dermatology Coding Alert

Published on Wed Feb 04, 2004 PDF

Question: Can I report G0168 when I use Dermabond for a simple laceration repair?
    
Florida Subscriber
 
Answer: Code G0168 is for wound closure by tissue  adhesive, which is the procedure of closing a wound. "G" codes are typically procedures, not supply codes. Supply codes are usually found in the "A" section of the Level II  HCPCS. This code is reimbursed at a rate of about $100 and includes the cost of the Dermabond material. You cannot bill this code with any of the wound repair codes (12002-13152) as well as several of the flap codes.
 
You would not list a supply code in addition to G0168, because the cost of supplies has already been calculated in the fee for this service, under Resource Based Relative Value Scale rules. In this instance, you have a choice of reporting the actual wound repair code, which is priced for the typical suture tray supplies. CPT states, "Use the codes in this section to designate wound closure utilizing sutures, staples, or tissue adhesives (e.g., 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."
 
Fees for these codes will vary with the type and length of the wound, as well as the site of the wound.