Pediatric Coding Alert
You Be The Expert - Reporting Removal of Stitches
Missouri Subscriber
Answer: Since your pediatrician did not perform the repair, the 10-day global period does not apply. Report CPT 99211 (Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient, that may not require the presence of a physician) for the suture removal.
If your pediatrician performs the initial repair, report only 12001 (Simple repair of superficial wounds of scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk and/or extremities [including hands and feet]; 2.5 cm or less). The suture removal is covered by the 10-day global period for the procedure if the same doctor performs the repair and the removal.
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