How To Use CPT Code 10120
CPT 10120 describes the procedure in which the healthcare professional eliminates a foreign object, including but not limited to a fishhook, sliver of glass, thorn, or piece of wood, from the subcutaneous tissue.
1. What Is CPT Code 10120?
CPT 10120 covers a procedure in which a provider removes a foreign body from the lower layer of a patient’s skin.
Examples of foreign bodies are;
- a fishhook;
- a sliver of glass;
- a piece of wood; or
- a thorn.
2. Description
The CPT book described the 10120 CPT code as: “Incision and removal of foreign body, subcutaneous tissues; simple.”
3. Procedure
The procedure describes by CPT code 10120 involves the removal of foreign bodies from the skin without any dissection. It is a simple incision that only requires a properly prepped and anesthetized patient, along with the use of appropriate instruments.
Foreign bodies can cause discomfort and even infection if left untreated in the skin. As such, this procedure is a common one that many providers routinely perform to help their patients.
To start, the provider will ensure that the patient is properly prepped and anesthetized before beginning the procedure. Anesthesia is necessary to minimize the pain and discomfort that may be associated with the foreign body removal.
Once the patient is appropriately anesthetized, the provider will use the appropriate instrumentation to remove the foreign body. No dissection is required for this type of foreign body removal since it is a simple incision.
The provider will incise the skin around the foreign body to better expose it and then use forceps to remove it. This process is relatively quick and efficient, ensuring that the patient experiences minimal pain and discomfort.
After the foreign body is removed, the provider will proceed to close the incision and ensure that the wound is cleaned and dressed properly. This is important to prevent any infections or complications that may arise due to the procedure.
Overall, the CPT code 10120 procedure is a straightforward process that effectively removes foreign bodies from the skin. It is an important procedure for anyone who may have a foreign object lodged in their skin and should be performed by a skilled provider.
4. How To Use CPT 10120
Do not use CPT code 10120 if the removal of the foreign body is complicated. In that case, you can report CPT code 10121 instead.
If you bill CPT 10121, prove with documentation that the procedure is complicated because it needs extensive exploration, layered wound closure, and/or imaging guidance.
5. Resources
https://www.mass.gov/doc/surgery-service-codes-spreadsheet-effective-august-1-2021/download
https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid/basics/art-20056604
