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The CPT® Code 15011 refers to the procedure of harvesting skin for the purpose of creating a skin cell suspension autograft (SCSA). This process involves the careful selection of a donor site from which skin is extracted. The surgeon begins by evaluating the wound bed that requires treatment, measuring it, and performing calculations to ascertain the appropriate size of the donor site and the necessary volume of skin cell suspension autograft needed for the split-thickness autograft. To facilitate the harvesting of skin, the donor site is prepared by inducing a state of tumescence, which is achieved by injecting a crystalloid solution containing electrolytes into the area. This solution mimics the body’s natural fluids, allowing for the extraction of a very thin and delicate layer of skin. The actual harvesting involves removing a thin skin graft, typically between 0.0006 and 0.0008 inches deep, which includes both the epidermis and a portion of the outer dermal layer. This technique is specifically utilized for treating partial-thickness wounds. In cases where full-thickness wounds are addressed, a layered approach is employed, combining SCSA with a split-thickness skin graft, which may involve harvesting from a different healthy donor site. The code 15011 is applicable for the first 25 square centimeters of skin harvested, while code 15012 is designated for each additional 25 square centimeters or any portion thereof.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 15011 is indicated for the treatment of partial-thickness wounds. These types of wounds may arise from various causes, including surgical procedures, trauma, or burns, where the skin is damaged but not completely lost. The use of skin cell suspension autograft (SCSA) is particularly beneficial in promoting healing and restoring the integrity of the skin in these cases.
The procedure for harvesting skin for SCSA begins with the surgeon assessing the wound bed that requires treatment. This assessment includes measuring the wound and calculating the size of the donor site needed to provide sufficient skin for the autograft. Once the measurements are taken, the donor site is prepared by infiltrating it with a crystalloid solution. This solution, which contains electrolytes dissolved in water, is used to create a state of tumescence, allowing the skin to be harvested more easily and evenly. The surgeon then carefully removes a very thin skin graft from the donor site, ensuring that the graft is between 0.0006 and 0.0008 inches deep. This graft includes both the epidermis and a thin layer of the outer dermis. The harvested skin is then utilized for the SCSA, which is specifically indicated for treating partial-thickness wounds. In cases where a full-thickness wound is present, the surgeon may employ a layered technique that combines SCSA with a split-thickness skin graft, which may involve harvesting from a separate donor site.
After the harvesting procedure is completed, the donor site will require appropriate care to promote healing and minimize complications. The surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding wound care, which may include keeping the area clean and protected. Monitoring for signs of infection or complications is essential during the recovery period. The expected recovery time will vary depending on the individual’s health and the extent of the procedure, but generally, the donor site should heal within a few weeks. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess the healing process and ensure that the skin cell suspension autograft is integrating properly with the wound bed.
| Short Descr | HRV SKN CLL SSP AGRFT 1ST 25 | Medium Descr | HRV SKIN FOR SKIN CELL SSP AGRFT 1ST 25 SQ CM/< | Long Descr | Harvest of skin for skin cell suspension autograft; first 25 sq cm or less | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard 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) | 1 - Statutory 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 | Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies | ASC Payment Indicator | Non office-based surgical procedure added in CY 2008 or later; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | none | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. |
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| 2025-01-01 | Added | Code Added. |
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