How To Use CPT Code 23150

CPT code 23150 describes the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor of the proximal humerus. 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 23150?

CPT 23150 is used to describe the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor located in the proximal humerus, which is the upper arm bone. During this procedure, a noncancerous mass or cyst is removed from the bone by excising or scraping the affected area. The excised tissue is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 23150 is: ‘Excision or curettage of bone cyst or benign tumor of proximal humerus.’

3. Procedure

When performing CPT 23150, the healthcare provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient. An incision is made over the tumor or cyst, and the provider carefully dissects down to the bony tissue. Using a bone cutting instrument, the lesion is excised from the bone, ensuring a small rim of healthy margin is also removed. The excised tissue is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. After irrigating the area and checking for bleeding, the provider removes any instruments and closes the incision.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 23150 is used for patients who have a bone cyst or benign tumor in the proximal humerus that requires excision or curettage. The procedure is performed by a healthcare professional who is qualified to perform surgical interventions. It is important to note that this code is specifically for noncancerous masses or cysts.

5. When to use CPT code 23150

CPT code 23150 should be used when a patient requires the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor in the proximal humerus. It is important to ensure that the mass or cyst is noncancerous before using this code. If the mass is cancerous, a different code should be used to accurately reflect the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 23150, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a bone cyst or benign tumor in the proximal humerus
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific techniques used
• Documentation of the excised tissue and its submission to a laboratory for analysis
• Any complications or additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 23150, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the diagnosis and procedure details to support the claim. Additionally, follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 23150 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 23150

There are several similar codes to CPT 23150 that describe excision procedures on the shoulder. These include:

• CPT 23065: Excision of benign tumor or cyst of clavicle
• CPT 23100: Excision of benign tumor or cyst of scapula
• CPT 23101: Excision of benign tumor or cyst of scapula; with iliac or other autogenous graft
• CPT 23105: Excision of benign tumor or cyst of scapula; radical
• CPT 23220: Excision of tumor, soft tissue of shoulder area; subcutaneous

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a benign bone cyst in the proximal humerus. The healthcare provider performs CPT 23150 to excise the cyst and sends the tissue for analysis.
2. A noncancerous tumor is discovered in the proximal humerus of a patient. The healthcare provider performs CPT 23150 to remove the tumor and ensure a small margin of healthy tissue is excised as well.
3. A patient with a bone cyst in the proximal humerus undergoes CPT 23150 to curette the cyst and send the tissue for analysis.
4. A benign tumor is identified in the upper arm bone of a patient. The healthcare provider performs CPT 23150 to excise the tumor and ensure complete removal.
5. A bone cyst is causing discomfort for a patient in the proximal humerus. CPT 23150 is performed to remove the cyst and alleviate symptoms.
6. A noncancerous mass is discovered in the upper arm bone of a patient. The healthcare provider performs CPT 23150 to excise the mass and ensure no residual tissue remains.
7. A bone cyst in the proximal humerus is causing limited range of motion for a patient. CPT 23150 is performed to curette the cyst and improve mobility.
8. A benign tumor is identified in the upper arm bone of a patient. The healthcare provider performs CPT 23150 to excise the tumor and prevent further growth.
9. A patient presents with a bone cyst in the proximal humerus. CPT 23150 is performed to remove the cyst and relieve pain.
10. A noncancerous mass is discovered in the upper arm bone of a patient. The healthcare provider performs CPT 23150 to excise the mass and restore normal bone structure.