How To Use cpt 11920

cpt 11920 describes the procedure of tattooing, specifically the intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of the skin. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of cpt 11920.

1. What is cpt 11920?

cpt 11920 is a code used to describe the procedure of tattooing, specifically the intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of the skin. This procedure is commonly used to address color defects caused by congenital defects, breast reconstruction, burns, vitiligo, birthmarks, and other similar conditions. By using this code, healthcare professionals can provide a “permanent camouflage” for these color defects.

2. Official Description

The official description of cpt 11920 is: ‘Tattooing, intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of skin, including micropigmentation 6.0 sq cm or less.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for cpt 11920 involves the following steps:

1. The healthcare provider selects a single needle or set of needles and dips them into pigments that closely match the patient’s natural skin color.
2. The provider then injects the needle(s) into the skin, specifically the dermis layer, using an up and down motion.
3. As the needle(s) penetrate the epidermis and dermis, the pigments are implanted into the skin.
4. Any excess pigment is carefully wiped off the skin.
5. In cases where micropigmentation is required, the procedure may need to be repeated in multiple sessions to achieve the desired result.

4. Qualifying circumstances

cpt 11920 is appropriate for patients who require tattooing to correct color defects of the skin. This may include individuals with congenital defects, those undergoing breast reconstruction, individuals with burns, vitiligo patients, individuals with birthmarks, and others with similar conditions. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has experience and expertise in tattooing techniques.

5. When to use cpt code 11920

cpt 11920 should be used when the healthcare professional performs tattooing to correct color defects of the skin, specifically for areas measuring 6.0 sq cm or less. If the area to be tattooed is larger than 6.0 sq cm, a different code, such as cpt 11921, should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for cpt 11920, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• The specific color defect or condition being addressed
• The size of the area being tattooed (6.0 sq cm or less)
• The pigments used and their similarity to the patient’s natural skin color
• The date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional sessions scheduled for micropigmentation
• The signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for cpt 11920, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to accurately report the size of the area being tattooed (6.0 sq cm or less) and to use the appropriate code if the area is larger. Additionally, consider any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance companies or payers.

8. Historical information

cpt 11920 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to cpt 11920

While there are no specific similar codes to cpt 11920, there are other codes related to tattooing and procedures on the integumentary system. These include codes within the range of 11900-11983, which cover various introduction or removal procedures on the skin.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare professional performing tattooing to correct color defects caused by vitiligo on an area of the skin measuring 4.5 sq cm.
2. A patient undergoing breast reconstruction receiving tattooing to match the color of the reconstructed breast to the natural breast.
3. A healthcare professional addressing a birthmark on a patient’s face through tattooing, covering an area of 3.2 sq cm.
4. A burn survivor receiving tattooing to camouflage color irregularities on a scar, covering an area of 5.8 sq cm.
5. An individual with a congenital defect on their arm receiving tattooing to correct the color discrepancy, covering an area of 2.7 sq cm.
6. A patient with a color defect on their leg due to a previous surgery receiving tattooing to restore a natural appearance, covering an area of 6.0 sq cm.
7. A healthcare professional performing tattooing to correct color defects caused by a birthmark on a patient’s back, covering an area of 4.3 sq cm.
8. An individual with vitiligo on their hands receiving tattooing to restore a more uniform skin color, covering an area of 3.9 sq cm.
9. A patient with a color defect on their face due to a congenital defect receiving tattooing to improve their appearance, covering an area of 5.5 sq cm.
10. A healthcare professional addressing color irregularities on a patient’s neck through tattooing, covering an area of 2.1 sq cm.