How To Use CPT Code 28190

CPT 28190 describes the procedure for the removal of a foreign body from the foot, specifically from the subcutaneous tissue. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 28190, including its official description, the procedure involved, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 28190?

CPT 28190 is used to describe the removal of a foreign body that is located beneath the skin in the subcutaneous tissue of the foot. This code is specifically for cases where the foreign body is situated in the subcutaneous tissue and not deeper structures. The procedure involves making an incision in the skin to access the foreign body and removing it using a scalpel. The wound is then irrigated with an antiseptic solution and closed with sutures or strips.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 28190 is: ‘Removal of foreign body, foot; subcutaneous.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is prepped and anesthetized, typically with local anesthetic.
2. The provider makes an incision in the skin, from the dermis, to locate the foreign body embedded in the subcutaneous tissue.
3. The foreign body is carefully removed using a scalpel.
4. The wound is irrigated with an antiseptic solution to ensure cleanliness.
5. The provider then closes the wound using sutures or strips.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 28190 is used when there is a foreign body present in the subcutaneous tissue of the foot. This could include objects such as shards of metal or bone fragments. It is important to note that this code is specifically for cases where the foreign body is located in the subcutaneous tissue and not deeper structures. The procedure should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional who is trained in the removal of foreign bodies.

5. When to use CPT code 28190

CPT code 28190 should be used when a foreign body is present in the subcutaneous tissue of the foot and needs to be removed. It is important to ensure that the foreign body is located in the subcutaneous tissue and not deeper structures. If the foreign body is located in deeper structures, a different CPT code, such as 28192, should be used. It is also important to document the specific location of the foreign body and the method used for removal.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 28190, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the presence of a foreign body in the subcutaneous tissue of the foot
• Details of the procedure, including the incision made, the location of the foreign body, and the method of removal
• Documentation of any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 28190, ensure that the procedure involves the removal of a foreign body from the subcutaneous tissue of the foot. It is important to use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific location of the foreign body. If the foreign body is located in deeper structures, a different CPT code should be used. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 28190 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 presents with a shard of glass embedded in the subcutaneous tissue of their foot. The provider performs an incision, locates the foreign body, and removes it using a scalpel. The wound is then irrigated and closed with sutures.
2. A child steps on a small piece of metal that becomes lodged in the subcutaneous tissue of their foot. The provider makes an incision, removes the foreign body, and ensures the wound is clean before closing it with sutures.
3. An individual has a splinter embedded in the subcutaneous tissue of their foot. The provider performs a procedure to remove the splinter, cleans the wound, and closes it with sutures.
4. A patient presents with a bone fragment in the subcutaneous tissue of their foot. The provider makes an incision, removes the fragment, irrigates the wound, and closes it with sutures.
5. An individual has a small piece of plastic embedded in the subcutaneous tissue of their foot. The provider performs a procedure to remove the foreign body, cleans the wound, and closes it with sutures.