How To Use CPT Code 15793

CPT code 15793 describes the application of chemical agents to the deep nonfacial dermal skin by a physician to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 15793?

CPT 15793 is used to report the application of chemical agents to the deep nonfacial dermal skin by a physician. This procedure, also known as a chemical peel, is performed to improve the texture and appearance of the skin by removing superficial scars, sun damage, or acne. The chemical agents used in this procedure can include alpha-hydroxy acids, retinoic acid, or phenol, among others.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 15793 is: ‘Chemical peel, nonfacial dermal.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for CPT code 15793 involves the following steps:

1. The physician thoroughly cleans the skin to be treated to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. To protect delicate areas, the physician may apply petroleum jelly.
3. A local anesthetic may be administered to minimize discomfort.
4. The physician applies the chemical solution, such as alpha-hydroxy acids or trichloroacetic acid, to the deep nonfacial dermal skin using cotton swabs or foam applicators.
5. The chemical solution is applied in a rolling motion to ensure even coverage.
6. The duration of the application may vary depending on the desired outcome and the specific requirements of the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 15793 is typically performed on patients with superficial scars, sun damage, or acne on their nonfacial dermal skin. The procedure is performed by a physician and involves the application of chemical agents to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to the deep nonfacial dermal skin and should not be used for facial chemical peels or other types of skin treatments.

5. When to use CPT code 15793

CPT code 15793 should be used when a physician performs a chemical peel on the deep nonfacial dermal skin. This code is appropriate for reporting the application of chemical agents to improve the texture and appearance of the skin in cases of superficial scars, sun damage, or acne. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 15793, the physician must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for a chemical peel on the deep nonfacial dermal skin.
• Specific chemical agents used in the procedure.
• Date of the procedure.
• Start and end time of the procedure.
• Details of the application technique, including the use of cotton swabs or foam applicators.
• Any additional information relevant to the procedure, such as the duration of the application or any complications encountered.
• Physician’s signature.

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 15793, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The physician should be careful not to report this code for facial chemical peels or other types of skin treatments. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting this code with other codes, but it is important to follow any applicable bundling or unbundling rules.

8. Historical information

CPT code 15793 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 15793

There are no similar codes to CPT code 15793 within the range of Other Repair (Closure) Procedures on the Integumentary System (15780-15879).

9. Examples

1. A physician performing a chemical peel on the deep nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with acne scars.
2. A physician applying chemical agents to the nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with sun damage.
3. A physician performing a chemical peel on the deep nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with superficial scars.
4. A physician using chemical agents to improve the texture and appearance of the nonfacial dermal skin in a patient with rosacea.
5. A physician performing a chemical peel on the deep nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with hyperpigmentation.
6. A physician applying chemical agents to the nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with melasma.
7. A physician performing a chemical peel on the deep nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
8. A physician using chemical agents to improve the texture and appearance of the nonfacial dermal skin in a patient with hypertrophic scars.
9. A physician performing a chemical peel on the deep nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with actinic keratosis.
10. A physician applying chemical agents to the nonfacial dermal skin of a patient with seborrheic keratosis.