CPT code 11045 refers to cleaning and removing damaged tissue under the skin during a surgery, focusing on an area up to about 20 square centimeters. CPT 11045 represents “Debridement, subcutaneous tissue (includes epidermis and dermis, if performed); each additional 20 sq cm, or part thereof (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves removing dead, damaged, or infected tissue from under the skin to help the area heal better. It’s like giving your skin a fresh start, allowing new tissue to grow healthily. During the process, the surface layer of the skin and the layer just beneath it might also be cleaned up, if needed. This is a separate step that can be added to the main task of removing unwanted tissue.
Common Names:
- Debridement of subcutaneous tissue
- Subcutaneous tissue removal
- Skin tissue cleaning
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.5.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Subcutaneous Tissue Debridement
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Tissue Removal and Cleaning Under the Skin
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients who have wounds that aren’t healing well on their own. For example, someone with a stubborn ulcer or a burn that just won’t get better might need this. Doctors use this process to remove all the bad stuff so the area can heal properly. It’s especially common for people with chronic skin issues or injuries.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- L97.909: A condition where the skin on the foot has developed a sore that is not healing well.
- T79.2XXA: A problem due to abnormal pressure building in a muscle because of an injury, causing skin complications.
- L89.123: A serious skin ulcer that forms due to prolonged pressure, commonly in bedridden patients.
Summary
In summary, code 11045 describes the removal of unwanted tissue under the skin to promote healing. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 11045 include L97.909 (an unhealed foot sore) and T79.2XXA (a muscle injury complication).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.