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The CPT® Code 17380 refers to the procedure known as electrolysis epilation, which is a method used for permanent hair removal. In this procedure, a physician utilizes an electroneedle that is carefully inserted into individual hair follicles. Once the needle is in place, an electric current is activated, which effectively destroys the hair follicle, preventing future hair growth. This process is repeated multiple times across a specific localized area where unwanted hair is present. The procedure is typically performed in increments of 30 minutes, as indicated by the code. Electrolysis is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking a long-term solution to unwanted hair, as it targets the hair follicle directly, ensuring that hair does not regrow in the treated areas.
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The procedure coded as CPT® 17380 is indicated for individuals seeking permanent hair removal. It is particularly useful for patients who have unwanted hair in localized areas, which may include facial hair, underarm hair, or hair on the legs and arms. The procedure is suitable for various skin types and hair colors, making it a versatile option for those looking to eliminate hair growth effectively.
The electrolysis epilation procedure, as described by CPT® Code 17380, involves several key steps that ensure effective hair removal. First, the physician prepares the treatment area by cleaning the skin to minimize the risk of infection. Once the area is prepared, the physician carefully inserts an electroneedle into the targeted hair follicle. This step is crucial, as the precise placement of the needle is necessary for the subsequent application of the electric current. After the needle is positioned correctly, the physician activates the electric current, which travels through the needle and into the hair follicle. This current generates heat, effectively destroying the follicle and preventing future hair growth. The physician repeats this process for each hair follicle in the localized area, with the total duration of the procedure being reported in 30-minute increments as per the CPT® guidelines. Throughout the procedure, the physician monitors the patient’s comfort and adjusts the technique as needed to ensure optimal results.
After the electrolysis epilation procedure coded as CPT® 17380, patients may experience some redness or swelling in the treated area, which is a normal response to the treatment. It is important for patients to follow any post-procedure care instructions provided by the physician, which may include avoiding sun exposure, refraining from using harsh skin products, and keeping the area clean. Patients are typically advised to avoid activities that may irritate the skin, such as vigorous exercise or swimming in chlorinated pools, for a short period following the procedure. The expected recovery time is generally minimal, with most patients able to resume normal activities shortly after treatment. However, multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired results, as hair grows in different cycles, and not all hair follicles may be in the same growth phase during a single treatment session.
| Short Descr | ELECTROLYSIS EPILATION EA 30 | Medium Descr | ELECTROLYSIS EPILATION EACH 30 MINUTES | Long Descr | Electrolysis epilation, each 30 minutes | Status Code | Restricted Coverage | 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) | 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 | Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies | ASC Payment Indicator | Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later without MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P6A - Minor procedures - skin | MUE | 4 | CCS Clinical Classification | 170 - Excision of skin lesion |
| XU | Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service | 51 | Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d). | E2 | Lower left, eyelid | E4 | Lower right, eyelid | 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) | RT | Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body) |
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| 2025-01-01 | Changed | Short Description changed. |
| 2007-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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