CPT code 15271 refers to a medical procedure where a special material is placed on the skin to help heal wounds on various parts of the body, like the trunk, arms, or legs. CPT 15271 represents “Application of skin substitute graft to trunk, arms, legs, total wound surface area up to 100 sq cm; first 25 sq cm or less wound surface area.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves covering a wound with a skin substitute to promote healing. It is used for wounds that are relatively small, covering a total area of up to 100 square centimeters, with the initial focus on a wound area of 25 square centimeters or less. It does not include addressing larger wounds or applying the material to facial areas.
Common Names:
- Skin Graft
- Skin Substitute Application
- Epidermal Replacement
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 1.5.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Skin substitute for wound
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Application of skin substitute graft
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
Patients who often undergo this procedure might have small wounds due to injuries, surgeries, or conditions like burns. It’s suitable for individuals with wounds that are not healing well on their own. For example, someone with a burn covering a small part of their arm could be a candidate.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- T23.301A: Burn of third degree of unspecified site of right wrist
- S81.009A: Unspecified open wound of unspecified knee, initial encounter
- L97.209: Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified thigh with unspecified severity
Summary
In summary, code 15271 describes the application of a skin substitute graft to aid in wound healing. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 15271 include T23.301A (Burn of right wrist) and S81.009A (Open wound of knee).
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.