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The CPT® Code 11922 refers to the procedure of tattooing, specifically the intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of the skin. This procedure is commonly utilized in cases where there is a need to restore or enhance the pigmentation of the skin, which may have been altered due to various factors such as injury, surgery, or congenital conditions. The process involves the use of a specialized tattoo instrument that injects colored dye into the dermal layer of the skin, effectively creating artificial pigmentation. This technique is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to improve the appearance of skin areas that exhibit abnormal pigmentation. It is important to note that this code is designated as an add-on code, meaning it is used in conjunction with a primary procedure code. Specifically, it is applicable for each additional 20.0 square centimeters of tattooed area beyond the initial coverage provided by the primary procedure codes, which include CPT® Code 11920 for areas measuring 6.0 square centimeters or less and CPT® Code 11921 for areas measuring between 6.1 and 20.0 square centimeters. The structured approach to tattooing ensures that the procedure is performed accurately and effectively, addressing the specific needs of the patient while adhering to established coding guidelines.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 11922 is indicated for patients who require correction of color defects in the skin. This may include individuals with:
The procedure for CPT® Code 11922 involves several key steps to ensure effective and safe tattooing for the correction of skin color defects. The process begins with the physician outlining the specific area to be treated using a pen, which helps to define the boundaries of the tattoo site. This initial marking is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic outcome and ensuring precision during the procedure.
Post-procedure care following the application of CPT® Code 11922 is essential for optimal healing and to ensure the longevity of the tattooed area. Patients are typically advised to keep the treated area clean and dry for a specified period. It is common for the physician to provide instructions on how to care for the skin, including recommendations for avoiding sun exposure and the use of moisturizers or ointments to promote healing. Patients may also be informed about the potential for temporary redness or swelling in the treated area, which should subside within a few days. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the healing process and determine if any additional touch-ups are necessary to achieve the desired pigmentation results.
| Short Descr | CORRECT SKIN COLOR EA 20.0CM | Medium Descr | TATTOOING INCL MICROPIGMENTATION EA 20.0 CM | Long Descr | Tattooing, intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of skin, including micropigmentation; each additional 20.0 sq cm, or part thereof (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure) | Status Code | Restricted Coverage | Global Days | ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates | ASC Payment Indicator | Packaged service/item; no separate payment made. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P6A - Minor procedures - skin | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 174 - Other non-OR therapeutic procedures on skin and breast |
This is an add-on code that must be used in conjunction with one of these primary codes.
| 11921 | MPFS Status: Restricted APC T ASC P3 Tattooing, intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of skin, including micropigmentation; 6.1 to 20.0 sq cm |
| 58 | Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78. | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | 76 | Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service. | AS | Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | LT | Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body) |
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Short Descriptor changed. |
| 2009-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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