Wiki Foreign Body Removal CPT Code?

[SHobbs]

What is the difference in 10120 and 28190? Our provider removed a thorn from a patients heel. Which code is more appropriate?

 

[AB87]

10120-Incision and Removal of Foreign Body (Subcutaneous tissues) Simple

 

[Biller385]

28190 is more specific for the area involved. If an incision was not made you can not use 10120.

Cathy

 

[AB87]

We pretty much need the Note in order to give you a better Answer

 

[DeLisa_Smith]

See CPT Assistant, December 2013, Volume 23, Issue 12, page 16; it explains the difference between 10120 and 28190 based on depth of foreign body; 10120 being incision made into skin and subcutaneous; 28190 "If the fascia was penetrated and the foreign body was within the fascia, subfascial, or muscle, then the Musculoskeletal series of codes would be reported."