How To Use CPT Code 17380

CPT 17380 describes the use of short wave diathermy current to destroy and remove unwanted hair, providing a permanent method of hair removal. 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 17380?

CPT 17380 is a code used to describe the procedure of electrolysis epilation, which involves the use of short wave diathermy current to destroy and remove unwanted hair. This method provides a permanent solution for hair removal.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 17380 is: ‘Electrolysis epilation, each 30 minutes.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for CPT 17380 involves the following steps:

1. The healthcare provider inserts a needle into the hair follicle at the angle in which the hair is growing.
2. A specific intensity of current is passed through the epilator to the needle via an electrical cable.
3. The provider holds the instrument in place for 20 to 30 seconds to destroy the hair follicle and the papilla.
4. The provider may remove the hair with forceps.
5. The rest of the hairs in the area are removed in a similar fashion.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 17380 is used for patients who require permanent hair removal. It is typically performed by a healthcare provider who is trained in electrolysis epilation. The procedure is suitable for individuals who want to remove unwanted hair from their body.

5. When to use CPT code 17380

CPT code 17380 should be used when a healthcare provider performs electrolysis epilation using short wave diathermy current for each 30-minute session. This code is appropriate for patients seeking permanent hair removal.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 17380, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s request for permanent hair removal
• Date and duration of the session
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of short wave diathermy current
• Areas of the body treated
• Progress made by the patient
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 17380, ensure that the procedure is performed by a healthcare provider trained in electrolysis epilation. Report one unit of CPT 17380 for each 30-minute session. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 17380 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There was a code change on January 1, 2007, which modified the description to ‘Electrolysis epilation, each 1/2 hour.’

9. Examples

1. A patient seeking permanent hair removal undergoes a 30-minute session of electrolysis epilation using short wave diathermy current.
2. A healthcare provider performs electrolysis epilation on a patient’s upper lip for 30 minutes.
3. A patient receives electrolysis epilation on their underarms for a 30-minute session.
4. A healthcare provider performs electrolysis epilation on a patient’s bikini area for 30 minutes.
5. A patient undergoes a 30-minute session of electrolysis epilation on their legs.
6. A healthcare provider performs electrolysis epilation on a patient’s chin for 30 minutes.
7. A patient receives electrolysis epilation on their back for a 30-minute session.
8. A healthcare provider performs electrolysis epilation on a patient’s chest for 30 minutes.
9. A patient undergoes a 30-minute session of electrolysis epilation on their eyebrows.
10. A healthcare provider performs electrolysis epilation on a patient’s arms for 30 minutes.