How To Use CPT Code 10140

CPT 10140 involves the incision and drainage of a hematoma, seroma, or fluid collection. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes, and examples of CPT 10140.

1. What is CPT 10140?

CPT 10140 is a medical procedure code used to describe the incision and drainage of a hematoma, seroma, or fluid collection. This code is utilized by medical professionals to accurately document and bill for the specific services provided to patients during the treatment of these conditions.

2. 10140 CPT code description

The official description of CPT code 10140 is: “Incision and drainage of hematoma, seroma or fluid collection.”

3. Procedure

The CPT 10140 procedure involves the following steps:

  1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
  2. The provider makes an incision into the hematoma, seroma, or other collection of fluids.
  3. The provider bluntly penetrates the fluid collection to allow for evacuation.
  4. Fluid evacuation may be performed with or without the use of packing material.
  5. The incision is either closed primarily (at that session) or left to heal without closure.
  6. A pressure dressing may be applied over the skin if necessary.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT code 10140 services are those who have a hematoma, seroma, or fluid collection that requires incision and drainage. This may include patients with postoperative complications, traumatic injuries, or other medical conditions that have resulted in the accumulation of fluid. The decision to perform this procedure is typically based on the provider’s clinical judgment and the patient’s specific medical needs.

5. When to use CPT code 10140

It is appropriate to bill the 10140 CPT code when a provider performs an incision and drainage of a hematoma, seroma, or fluid collection. This code should be used to accurately document and bill for the specific services provided during the treatment of these conditions. It is essential to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and supported by appropriate documentation to avoid potential billing issues or claim denials.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 10140, the following information should be documented:

  • Patient’s medical history and relevant clinical findings
  • Indication for the procedure, including the type of fluid collection (hematoma, seroma, etc.)
  • Details of the procedure performed, including the incision site, method of drainage, and any additional interventions (e.g., packing, closure)
  • Postoperative care instructions and follow-up plan
  • Any complications or adverse events encountered during the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 10140, it is essential to follow the appropriate guidelines and rules to ensure accurate reimbursement. Some tips for billing this code include:

  • Ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and supported by appropriate documentation.
  • Verify that the patient’s insurance plan covers the procedure.
  • Use the correct CPT code (10140) to describe the specific services provided.
  • Include any relevant modifiers, if applicable, to provide additional information about the procedure or the provider’s role in the patient’s care.
  • Submit the claim promptly and accurately to avoid delays in payment or claim denials.

8. Historical information

CPT 10140 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no significant updates to this code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 10140

There are several codes similar to CPT 10140, which differ based on the specific type of incision and drainage performed. These include:

  • CPT 10060: Incision and drainage of an abscess, which involves the treatment of a localized infection.
  • CPT 10061: Incision and drainage of a complicated or multiple abscess, which may require additional interventions or a more complex procedure.
  • CPT 10120: Incision and removal of a foreign body, which involves the extraction of an object embedded in the skin or soft tissue.
  • CPT 10121: Incision and removal of a complicated foreign body, which may require a more extensive procedure or additional interventions.
  • CPT 10180: Complex incision and drainage, which involves the treatment of a more complicated fluid collection or the use of more advanced techniques.

10. Examples

Here are 10 detailed examples of CPT code 10140 procedures:

  1. A patient presents with a postoperative seroma following abdominal surgery. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the seroma using CPT 10140.
  2. A patient with a traumatic injury develops a hematoma in the thigh. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the hematoma using CPT 10140.
  3. A patient with a history of chronic venous insufficiency develops a fluid collection in the lower leg. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the fluid collection using CPT 10140.
  4. A patient with a history of breast augmentation surgery presents with a seroma around the implant. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the seroma using CPT 10140.
  5. A patient with a history of liver cirrhosis develops a fluid collection in the abdominal cavity. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the fluid collection using CPT 10140.
  6. A patient with a history of kidney transplantation develops a fluid collection around the transplant site. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the fluid collection using CPT 10140.
  7. A patient with a history of orthopedic surgery develops a hematoma at the surgical site. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the hematoma using CPT 10140.
  8. A patient with a history of radiation therapy for cancer develops a fluid collection in the treatment area. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the fluid collection using CPT 10140.
  9. A patient with a history of intravenous drug use develops a fluid collection in the arm. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the fluid collection using CPT 10140.
  10. A patient with a history of autoimmune disease develops a fluid collection in the soft tissue. The provider performs an incision and drainage of the fluid collection using CPT 10140.

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