Q&A Repair of lacerations coding

[Michael.James927]

Working out of my home office as a Medical Coder came across chart needing help with coding. Thanks in advance. Michael-james927

Repair of lacerations 1 cm simple right forearm, 2 cm layered left forearm, 3 cm simple left knee, 4 cm simple face, and 5 cm layered face .

 

[Carolyn Heath]

Using the AAPC Coder, I came up with this answer:
12002 - simple repair of forearm & knee (you add them together; 1 + 3 = 4)
12013 - simple repair of face
12031 - intermediate or layered repair of forearm
12042 - intermediate or layered repair of face

 

[Ruth Sheets]

This topic, namely, CPT Coding of Lacerations, was discussed by Laureen Jandroep during the January 2016 webinar. She explained the difference among simple, intermediate, and complex repairs, and what to do if the physician did not specify the length(s).

Join the CCO Club if you would like to have the full transcript, answer sheets, access to the recording, and a chance to earn AAPC CEUs. You will also get access to all the available monthly Q&A webinar resources when you join the CCO Club!