December 2003 page 8
Coding Correction
In the April 2003 issue of CPT Assistant, a coding question and answer was
published regarding microdermabrasion treatment. From a CPT coding perspective, and
upon further review and input from our physician advisors, it would not be appropriate
to report code 15783, Dermabrasion; superficial, any site, (eg,
tattoo removal), for microdermabrasion treatment. Code 15783 is
for "superficial" abrasion and uses the example of tattoo removal. However, tattoo
pigment is embedded in the dermis and abrasion treatment of tattoo abrades into the
dermis and always causes bleeding. Microdermabrasion treatment is not an epidermal
procedure...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This Coding Correction from CPT Assistant addresses a previously published question involving microdermabrasion treatment and a CPT coding review. It is useful for coding professionals who work with dermatologic procedures and need to understand the scope of the correction and the categories of coding guidance discussed in the notice.
Why This Topic Matters
The correction helps readers identify that the article revises earlier guidance and places the topic within CPT coding review for skin-related procedures. It matters to coders and auditors because it signals that the issue should be interpreted as a formal correction rather than a routine coding note.
Article Sections
December 2003 page 8
A brief coding correction notice tied to a prior CPT Assistant discussion. The section addresses a revised coding perspective related to a dermatologic procedure and references the basis for the correction.
What You Will Learn
What type of CPT Assistant content the notice is
The general clinical area involved in the correction
How the article frames a revised coding perspective
Why correction notices matter for coding reference use
Welcome to the ultimate resource for mastering CPT coding – the CPT® Assistant. This indispensable tool, brought to you by the American Medical Association (AMA), is designed specifically for medical coders, auditors, and billers who strive for accuracy and efficiency in their daily work with patient charts. Whether you are validating codes, training staff, or appealing insurance denials, CPT Assistant provides the authoritative guidance you need to excel.
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