How To Use CPT Code 15832

CPT code 15832 describes the excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue, including lipectomy, on the thigh. 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 15832?

CPT 15832 is used to describe the surgical removal of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue on the thigh. This procedure may also include the removal of excess fat using a scalpel, cannula, or hollow needles. Additionally, any loose skin is elliptically excised using a scalpel and cautery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 15832 is: ‘Excision, excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue (includes lipectomy) thigh.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for CPT 15832 involves the following steps:

1. The physician makes a horizontal incision with a scalpel over the thigh area.
2. Excess fat is removed using a scalpel, cannula, or hollow needles.
3. Excessive loose skin is elliptically excised using a scalpel and cautery.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 15832 is typically performed on patients who have excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue on their thighs. This procedure may be necessary for individuals who have undergone significant weight loss or have excess skin due to aging. It is important to note that the procedure should only be performed by a qualified physician.

5. When to use CPT code 15832

CPT code 15832 should be used when a physician performs the excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue on the thigh. 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 15832, the physician must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the excision procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the specific techniques used
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 15832, it is important to follow the appropriate guidelines. Ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code. It is also important to review any payer-specific guidelines to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 15832 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. Examples

1. A patient who has undergone significant weight loss and has excess skin and subcutaneous tissue on their thighs.
2. An individual with loose skin on their thighs due to aging.
3. A patient who desires a more contoured appearance of their thighs.
4. An individual with excess skin and subcutaneous tissue on their thighs following a surgical procedure.
5. A patient with a medical condition that has caused excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue on their thighs.
6. An individual who has experienced trauma to their thighs resulting in excess skin and subcutaneous tissue.
7. A patient who has undergone liposuction on their thighs and requires the removal of excess skin and subcutaneous tissue.
8. An individual with a congenital condition that has caused excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue on their thighs.
9. A patient who desires a thigh lift procedure to improve the appearance of their thighs.
10. An individual with excess skin and subcutaneous tissue on their thighs due to the natural aging process.