• If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ & read the forum rules. To view all forums, post or create a new thread, you must be an AAPC Member. If you are a member and have already registered for member area and forum access, you can log in by clicking here. If you've forgotten the password it can be reset on our sign in section by entering your registered Email Address or Username here. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below..

Destruction vs. excision of a malignant lesion

andersee

andersee

Expert
Messages
322
Location
Rose City (Portland, Oregon)
Chart note:

Pt here with bx proven SCC. Area that needs excision.

The 2.1 cm lesion was deeply excised and curetted and desiccated 3 separate times.

Would I use an excision (116XX) or destruction (172XX) code?

Thanks!
 
O.k. from my understanding with destruction and excisions codes is this..

Destruction codes depending on what technique was used and of course it did not go to pathology.. Look at your physicians Op note and look at the descriptions in the CPT Manual and choose the one that best fit the sceario..

Excision codes depends and sometimes they go to pathology..

If the malignant lesion did not go to pathology look at destruction. Also, be carefull of the procedure codes.. Some procedure codes are for "Malignant Lesions" other are for "Benign Lesions".

Make sure that the diagnosis code match to the procedure code. Make sure the procedure code matches to the technique that was done. Per CPT guidelines.

Hope this helps....
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top