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A dermal xenograft, specifically identified by CPT® Code 15400, is a medical procedure involving the application of skin tissue obtained from a different species, commonly porcine (pig), to facilitate temporary wound closure. This procedure is typically performed on the trunk, arms, or legs of patients. The xenograft serves as a biological dressing, providing a protective layer over the wound until it is eventually rejected by the patient's immune system. The skin graft is processed through methods such as glycerol treatment and either freezing with liquid nitrogen or freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, to preserve its viability. When ready for application, the xenograft is either thawed or rehydrated, depending on its preservation method, and is then carefully placed onto a prepared wound bed. The graft is secured in position using sutures to ensure it remains in place during the healing process. This code is applicable for the first 100 square centimeters of skin grafting in adults or for 1% of the total body surface area (TBSA) in infants and children. For any additional coverage beyond these parameters, CPT® Code 15401 should be utilized.
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The procedure involving the application of a dermal xenograft is indicated for the temporary closure of wounds located on the trunk, arms, or legs. This procedure is particularly relevant in cases where there is a need for a biological dressing to protect the wound and promote healing until the patient's own tissue can adequately cover the area. The use of xenografts is often considered in situations where traditional wound closure methods may not be suitable or effective.
The procedure for applying a dermal xenograft involves several critical steps to ensure proper placement and effectiveness of the graft. Initially, the wound bed must be prepared, which may include cleaning the area and removing any necrotic tissue to create an optimal environment for graft application.
After the application of the dermal xenograft, post-procedure care is essential to ensure optimal healing and minimize complications. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection or graft rejection. The area should be kept clean and dry, and any dressings should be changed as directed by the healthcare provider. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess the healing process and determine if additional interventions are required. It is important to educate patients on the signs of complications and the importance of adhering to post-procedure care instructions to promote successful outcomes.
| Short Descr | APPLY SKIN XENOGRAFT T/A/L | Medium Descr | XENOGRAFT TEMP CLOSURE TRUNK/ARM/LEG 1ST 100CM | Long Descr | Xenograft, skin (dermal), for temporary wound closure, trunk, arms, legs; first 100 sq cm or less, or 1% of body area of infants and children | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 090 - Major Surgery | 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 | Discontinued Code | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | none | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 172 - Skin graft |
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