AMA CPT® Assistant - 1993 Issue 3 (Fall)
Scar Revision (Fall 1993)
Fall 1993 pages 7-8 Scar Revision How are scar revisions coded? There may be several answers, depending upon what the physician does to the surgical defect created after removing the scar. To answer this question, scenarios will be presented along with the correct coding for each. The "excision-benign lesions" codes (11400-11446) can be used to report the removal of a scar; these codes include simple closure of the wound created by the scar removal. Note that in the guidelines for use of these codes, cicatricial lesions are one of the examples given. Cicatricial means "pertaining to or resembling a...
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Article Overview
This article explains how scar revision scenarios were addressed in CPT coding guidance, including different repair pathways after scar removal and how the reporting approach changes based on the procedure performed. It is useful for coders, billers, and compliance staff who need to understand the general categories of CPT services involved in scar revision and related operative documentation. The discussion centers on scar excision, repair, grafting, and adjacent tissue transfer concepts, along with references to CPT Assistant and CPT editorial guidance from the period.
Why This Topic Matters
Scar revision cases can be coded in more than one way depending on the operative work performed, so understanding the article helps support accurate reporting and consistent documentation review.
Article Sections
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Fall 1993 pages 7-8
Introductory article content introducing scar revision coding questions and the general approach used to discuss related CPT scenarios.
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Scenarios involving scar excision and repair
Examples and general discussion of reporting approaches for scar removal when closure, more extensive repair, grafting, or flap-based reconstruction is involved.
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Note
A brief closing note about variation in reporting practices and the importance of documentation and payer guidance.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames different scar revision scenarios
- Which broad CPT service categories are discussed for scar-related procedures
- How the article presents the relationship between excision, repair, grafting, and tissue transfer
- What kinds of documentation and payer considerations are mentioned
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Billing staff
- Compliance professionals
- Physician practice administrators
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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