How To Use cpt 12005

cpt 12005 describes the simple repair of superficial wounds to the scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk, and/or extremities (including the hands and feet) that are 12.6 to 20 cm in size. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of cpt 12005.

1. What is cpt 12005?

cpt 12005 is a code used to describe the simple repair of superficial wounds on various parts of the body, including the scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk, and extremities (including the hands and feet). This code is specifically used for wounds that are 12.6 to 20 cm in size. The procedure involves the closure of the wound using tissue adhesives, staples, or suture materials in a single-layer fashion.

2. Official Description

The official description of cpt 12005 is: ‘Simple repair of superficial wounds of scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk and/or extremities (including hands and feet) 12.6 cm to 20.0 cm.’

3. Procedure

1. The physician assesses the superficial wound on the scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk, or extremities.
2. The wound is cleaned and prepared for closure.
3. The physician selects the appropriate closure method, such as tissue adhesives, staples, or sutures.
4. A single-layer closure is performed, involving the epidermis, dermis, or subcutaneous tissue.
5. The wound is dressed and appropriate post-procedure instructions are provided to the patient.

4. Qualifying circumstances

cpt 12005 is used for superficial wounds that are 12.6 to 20 cm in size. These wounds should only involve the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) and not extend into deeper subcutaneous tissues. The procedure is suitable for wounds on the scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk, and extremities (including the hands and feet).

5. When to use cpt code 12005

cpt 12005 should be used when a physician performs a simple repair of a superficial wound that meets the size criteria of 12.6 to 20 cm. It is important to ensure that the wound does not involve deeper tissues and is limited to the outermost layer of the skin. If the wound is smaller or larger than the specified size range, a different cpt code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for cpt 12005, the physician must document the following information:

• Size and location of the superficial wound
• Details of the wound closure method used (tissue adhesives, staples, or sutures)
• Any additional procedures performed, such as wound debridement
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications or post-procedure instructions provided to the patient
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for cpt 12005, ensure that the wound being repaired meets the size criteria of 12.6 to 20 cm. The procedure should involve the closure of superficial wounds on the specified body parts using tissue adhesives, staples, or sutures. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

cpt 12005 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 12005

Five similar codes to cpt 12005 include:

• cpt 12001: Simple repair of superficial wounds of scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk and/or extremities (including hands and feet) 2.5 cm or less
• cpt 12002: Simple repair of superficial wounds of scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk and/or extremities (including hands and feet) 2.6 cm to 7.5 cm
• cpt 12004: Simple repair of superficial wounds of scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk and/or extremities (including hands and feet) 7.6 cm to 12.5 cm
• cpt 12006: Simple repair of superficial wounds of scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk and/or extremities (including hands and feet) over 20.0 cm
• cpt 12007: Simple repair of superficial wounds of scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk and/or extremities (including hands and feet); complicated

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a 15 cm superficial wound on their trunk. The physician performs a simple repair using sutures.
2. A child sustains a 17 cm superficial wound on their scalp. The physician uses tissue adhesives to close the wound.
3. An individual has a 13 cm superficial wound on their hand. The physician performs a simple repair using staples.
4. A patient has a 19 cm superficial wound on their neck. The physician uses sutures to close the wound.
5. A person has a 14 cm superficial wound on their leg. The physician performs a simple repair using tissue adhesives.
6. An individual presents with a 10 cm superficial wound on their arm. The physician uses sutures to close the wound.
7. A patient has a 16 cm superficial wound on their foot. The physician performs a simple repair using staples.
8. An individual sustains a 18 cm superficial wound on their external genitalia. The physician uses tissue adhesives to close the wound.
9. A person has a 12 cm superficial wound on their scalp. The physician performs a simple repair using sutures.
10. An individual presents with a 20 cm superficial wound on their trunk. The physician uses staples to close the wound.