CPT code 97597 refers to a process used by medical providers to clean and manage a wound. CPT 97597 represents “Debridement (eg, high pressure waterjet with/without suction, sharp selective debridement with scissors, scalpel and forceps), open wound, (eg, fibrin, devitalized epidermis and/or dermis, exudate, debris, biofilm), including topical application(s), wound assessment, use of a whirlpool, when performed and instruction(s) for ongoing care, per session, total wound(s) surface area; first 20 sq cm or less.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves cleaning out a wound using methods like a strong stream of water, surgical tools such as scissors and scalpels, or sometimes suction. The goal is to remove unwanted materials like dead tissue, scabs, or harmful deposits that may have built up. It also includes applying dressings or medicine to help the wound heal, and possibly using a whirlpool bath. Additionally, patients receive instructions on how to care for the wound afterward. Note that this covers cleaning up to 20 square centimeters of the wound area each session.
Common Names:
- Wound Cleaning
- Debridement
- Wound Debridement
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.77.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Wound Debridement
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Wound Cleaning and Care
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly done for patients who have wounds that are not healing properly due to the presence of excess dead tissue or infection. For example, individuals with diabetes might need this if they have sores on their feet that aren’t getting better. People who have deep cuts from injuries or surgeries that aren’t healing as expected might also require this procedure.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- L97.509: This code is used for identifying non-healing or chronic skin ulcers, which are open sores that have trouble healing.
- L89.90: This represents pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, which occur due to prolonged pressure on the skin.
- T81.31XA: This code indicates a wound infection following a procedure, requiring the wound to be cleaned out.
Summary
In summary, code 97597 describes a medical procedure aimed at cleaning and caring for wounds to help them heal better. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 97597 include L97.509 (Chronic skin ulcer) and L89.90 (Pressure ulcer).
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.