Revisiting "Simple" Closure with Tissue Adhesives (May 1999)

May 1999 page 11-end Coding Clarification Revisiting "Simple" Closure with Tissue Adhesives The December 1998 issue of the CPT Assistant featured a question in the Coding Consultation section regarding coding for simple wound closure by tissue glue technique. Because the Repair (Closure) guidelines did not specifically identify this technique, the response at that time indicated that the appropriate way to report wound closure by this method was to use the unlisted code 17999, Unlisted procedure, skin, mucous membrane and subcutaneous tissue. Since that time, at its February 1999 meeting, the CPT Editorial Panel has reviewed several coding scenarios involving...

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Note:  The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.

Article Overview

This CPT Assistant coding clarification reviews how tissue adhesive closure was being addressed in relation to the Repair (Closure) section of CPT and describes the scope of the updated guidance announced in 1999. It is relevant to coders and billing staff working with wound repair, tissue adhesive techniques, and related CPT editorial updates, including a separate code reference for eye-related use. The article also situates the change within CPT editorial panel activity and references upcoming CPT 2000 revisions.

Why This Topic Matters

Coding for tissue adhesive closure affected how wound repairs were reported in CPT, so this clarification helps readers understand the article’s focus on updated guidance and the transition away from earlier handling of the topic. It is especially useful for professionals who need to follow CPT editorial changes and distinguish general wound closure from a separately listed application involving the eye.

Article Sections

  1. Coding Clarification

    Discusses a CPT coding clarification about tissue adhesive use in wound closure and the broader repair section guidance. It also notes related editorial review activity and upcoming CPT revisions.

What You Will Learn

  • The article’s focus within CPT coding guidance for tissue adhesive closure
  • How the topic was addressed in relation to the Repair (Closure) section
  • The context of the CPT Editorial Panel’s review and planned updates
  • That a separate CPT listing exists for a specific ocular application of tissue adhesive

Who Should Read This

  • Medical coders
  • Coding auditors
  • Billing staff
  • Compliance professionals
  • Physician practice staff

Codes Discussed


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