CPT code 97606 refers to a healthcare process that uses a special vacuum device to help wounds heal by drawing out fluid and promoting healing through pressure. CPT 97606 represents “Negative pressure wound therapy (eg, vacuum assisted drainage collection), utilizing durable medical equipment (DME), including topical application(s), wound assessment, and instruction(s) for ongoing care, per session; total wound(s) surface area greater than 50 square centimeters.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves applying a device that creates suction over a large wound, which helps remove excess fluids and promote healing. It involves using a special piece of equipment, and the healthcare provider will also look at the wound and give instructions on how to take care of it afterward. This specific code applies when the total surface area of the wound is larger than 50 square centimeters. It does not cover smaller wounds or other types of wound treatments not using this vacuum method.
Common Names:
- Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC)
- Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)
- Wound VAC
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.6.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Large Area Negative Pressure Therapy
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Vacuum-Assisted Wound Therapy
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients with large wounds that are difficult to heal, such as after surgery or due to chronic conditions like diabetes. For instance, someone who has had a major surgery with a large incision or someone with a serious injury that has left a big wound may benefit from this therapy.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- S81.001A: This code is used for an initial encounter when treating an open wound on the knee. It describes a specific type of wound that might need this vacuum therapy.
- L97.219: This code refers to a non-healing ulcer of the right calf, indicating a chronic wound that might be assisted with vacuum therapy.
- E11.621: This code addresses diabetes with a foot ulcer, a condition that can lead to severe chronic wounds sometimes treated with negative pressure therapy.
Summary
In summary, code 97606 describes a method of helping large wounds heal using vacuum-assisted devices. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 97606 include S81.001A (Open wound of knee) and L97.219 (Non-healing ulcer of the right calf).
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.