How To Use cpt 11921

cpt 11921 describes the intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of the skin, including micropigmentation, for an area of skin measuring 6.1 to 20.0 square centimeters. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of cpt 11921.

1. What is cpt 11921?

cpt 11921 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 for conditions such as congenital defects, breast reconstruction, burns, vitiligo, birthmarks, and other similar conditions. The purpose of this procedure is to provide a “permanent camouflage” for the color defect, helping to improve the appearance of the affected area.

2. Official Description

The official description of cpt 11921 is: ‘Tattooing, intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of skin, including micropigmentation 6.1 to 20.0 sq cm.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for cpt 11921 involves the following steps:

1. The provider assesses the color defect of the skin and determines the appropriate pigments to be used.
2. A single needle or set of needles is dipped into pigments that closely match the patient’s natural skin color.
3. The provider then injects the needle(s) into the skin, specifically the dermis layer, using an up and down motion.
4. The pigments are implanted into the skin, helping to correct the color defect.
5. Excess pigment is wiped off the skin.
6. In some cases, multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired result, especially for micropigmentation which requires a more precise technique.

4. Qualifying circumstances

cpt 11921 is typically performed for patients with color defects of the skin, such as congenital defects, breast reconstruction, burns, vitiligo, birthmarks, and other similar conditions. The procedure is intended to correct these color defects and provide a more natural appearance to the affected area. It is important to note that the size of the area being treated must be between 6.1 and 20.0 square centimeters to qualify for cpt 11921.

5. When to use cpt code 11921

cpt 11921 should be used when the provider performs the intradermal introduction of insoluble opaque pigments to correct color defects of the skin for an area measuring 6.1 to 20.0 square centimeters. It is important to accurately measure the size of the area being treated to ensure proper coding. If the area is smaller than 6.1 square centimeters, cpt code 11920 should be used. For areas larger than 20.0 square centimeters, an add-on code, cpt 11922, should be used in addition to the primary procedure code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for cpt 11921, the provider must document the following information:

• The diagnosis or reason for the procedure, such as congenital defect, breast reconstruction, burns, vitiligo, birthmark, etc.
• The size of the area being treated, measured in square centimeters.
• The specific pigments used to correct the color defect.
• The date of the procedure.
• Any additional sessions scheduled, if applicable.
• The provider’s signature.

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for cpt 11921, ensure that the procedure meets the qualifying circumstances and that the area being treated is between 6.1 and 20.0 square centimeters. If the area is smaller or larger, use the appropriate alternative codes (11920 for smaller areas, and 11922 as an add-on code for larger areas). It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

cpt 11921 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 11921

There are several similar codes to cpt 11921 that may be used in different circumstances. These include:

• cpt 11920: This code is used for tattooing procedures on smaller areas of the skin, measuring 6.0 square centimeters or less.
• cpt 11922: This is an add-on code used when the area being treated is larger than 20.0 square centimeters. It should be reported in addition to the primary procedure code.

9. Examples

Here are some examples of cases where cpt 11921 may be used:

1. A patient with vitiligo undergoes tattooing to correct color defects on a 10 square centimeter area of their face.
2. A breast cancer survivor receives tattooing to reconstruct the areola and nipple on one breast, covering an area of 15 square centimeters.
3. A patient with a burn scar on their arm undergoes tattooing to match the color of the surrounding skin, covering an area of 8 square centimeters.
4. An individual with a birthmark on their leg receives tattooing to blend the color with the rest of their skin, covering an area of 12 square centimeters.
5. A patient with a congenital defect on their forehead undergoes tattooing to correct the color, covering an area of 7 square centimeters.