Wiki Subungual mass excision finger

[RebeccaMoney]

I need help with this CPT. Op note states: The area was noted to be well demarcated and fibrinous appearing material was removed and sent to pathology.
Would 26115 be appropriate or is this something from the 117__ series? Thank you,

 

[fish4codes]

The 117 - codes deal with the nails - I would code from the 261 -, being sure to check for documentation of depth and size of mass (do you have the path report or did the surgeon document...) - can't be 100% w/o reading entire note.

 

[AlanPechacek]

I would agree with "fish4codes" above using the rationale that since the nail is an appendage of the skin, then removing a mass from beneath the nail (i.e. Subungual) would equate to removal of a "Subcutaneous" mass (26115, less than 1.5 cm.). Subungual masses are rarely/never going to be bigger than 1.5 cm.

Respectfully submitted, Alan Pechacek, M.D.
icd10orthocoder,com