CPT code 11046 refers to a medical procedure that involves cleaning out damaged or infected tissue from deep layers of the body, such as muscles and tissues surrounding them. CPT 11046 represents “Debridement, muscle and/or fascia (includes epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, if performed); each additional 20 sq cm, or part thereof (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves the removal of dead, infected, or contaminated tissue to help a wound heal better. It focuses on deep layers, like muscles and the strong sheets of tissue covering them, but also includes the layers closer to the surface, such as the skin and the fat underneath, if needed. This procedure is done in addition to the initial cleaning step that addresses the surface layers of the wound.
Common Names:
- Muscle Debridement
- Fascia Cleaning
- Deep Tissue Debridement
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 1.03.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Deep Muscle and Fascia Debridement
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Muscle and Tissue Layer Cleaning
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients who have wounds that are not healing properly due to infection or a high amount of dead tissue. For example, individuals who suffer from severe bacterial infections or injuries that damage deep muscle tissue might need this procedure to prevent further complications.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- T79.3: Post-traumatic wound infection, not elsewhere classified, particularly needing deep cleaning.
- M60.80: Myositis, which is an inflammation or infection of muscles, requiring deep tissue cleaning.
- L76.82: Non-healing surgical wound, particularly when involving deeper tissues.
Summary
In summary, code 11046 describes a procedure focused on removing damaged deep tissues to help a wound heal. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 11046 include T79.3 (infection of a wound) and M60.80 (muscle infection).
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.