CPT code 97608 refers to a therapy used to help wounds heal faster by using a machine that applies gentle suction to the wound area, helping manage excess fluid. CPT 97608 represents “Negative pressure wound therapy, (eg, vacuum assisted drainage collection), utilizing disposable, non-durable medical equipment including provision of exudate management collection system, topical application(s), wound assessment, and instructions for ongoing care, per session; total wound(s) surface area greater than 50 square centimeters.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure, known as negative pressure wound therapy, involves using a special machine to create a vacuum effect on a wound larger than 50 square centimeters. This helps remove fluid that can slow healing and supports better airflow around the wound. The procedure includes providing equipment to collect fluid, applying dressings to the wound, checking the wound, and giving instructions for care after the treatment. However, it does not include treatments with permanent equipment.
Common Names:
- Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC)
- Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)
- Wound VAC
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.46.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Large Wounds
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Negative Pressure Therapy with Disposable Equipment
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients with large wounds that do not heal well on their own. For example, it may be used for someone with a large surgical wound that isn’t closing properly or for a diabetic patient with a slow-healing foot sore.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- ICD-10 Code L89.309: This code represents a pressure ulcer (bedsore) of the patient’s back that does not have complications.
- ICD-10 Code S81.009A: This code indicates an open wound in the lower leg without complications.
- ICD-10 Code T89.9XXA: This code covers unspecified complications of surgical and medical care, with the wound being the focus.
Summary
In summary, code 97608 describes a helpful technique known as negative pressure wound therapy, which accelerates healing of large wounds. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 97608 include L89.309 (uncomplicated pressure ulcer) and S81.009A (non-complicated lower leg wound).
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.