How To Use CPT Code 38542

CPT 38542 describes the excision of lymph nodes deep in the jugular area. 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 38542?

CPT 38542 can be used to describe the excision of lymph nodes located deep in the jugular area. This code is used when a healthcare provider removes lymph nodes that are situated beneath the layer of muscle or bone in the axilla or armpit. The purpose of this procedure is to identify and diagnose the cause of disease in the lymph node or surrounding tissues.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 38542 is: ‘Dissection, deep jugular node(s).’ Please note that for a radical cervical neck dissection, a different code, 38720, should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient appropriately for the procedure.
2. The provider adjusts the patient’s neck to improve access to the target area.
3. Using a scalpel, the provider dissects the tissue overlying the target lymph node(s) and makes an incision through the tissue.
4. During the dissection, the provider takes care to preserve critical nerves and other structures in the area.
5. The provider excises the deep-seated lymph node(s) and reapproximates the tissues in layers.
6. If necessary, the provider may place a drain and suture it to the skin to facilitate the drainage of blood or other fluids during the healing process.
7. Finally, the provider closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 38542 is performed on patients who require the excision of lymph nodes deep in the jugular area. These lymph nodes are located in the neck, through which the jugular vein passes. The procedure is commonly performed to identify and diagnose the cause of disease in the lymph node or surrounding tissues.

5. When to use CPT code 38542

CPT code 38542 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the excision of lymph nodes deep in the jugular area. It is important to note that this code should only be reported once, regardless of the number of nodes dissected in the same area. If the provider performs excisions on the contralateral or opposite side, modifier 50, Bilateral procedure, should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 38542, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for lymph node excision
• Details of the procedure, including the specific lymph nodes excised
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, such as a sentinel node biopsy
• Any complications or post-operative care provided
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 38542, ensure that the excision of lymph nodes deep in the jugular area is performed. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and use the correct modifiers, such as modifier 50 for bilateral procedures. It is also crucial to review any specific billing requirements from insurance payers to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 38542 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs the excision of deep jugular lymph nodes to diagnose the cause of disease in a patient’s neck.
2. During a surgical procedure, a surgeon excises lymph nodes deep in the jugular area to determine the presence of cancer.
3. A patient undergoes the excision of deep jugular lymph nodes to investigate the cause of persistent swelling in the neck.
4. A healthcare provider performs the excision of deep jugular lymph nodes to assess the spread of infection in a patient’s neck.
5. During a diagnostic procedure, a surgeon excises lymph nodes deep in the jugular area to evaluate the presence of abnormal cells.
6. A patient undergoes the excision of deep jugular lymph nodes to investigate the cause of recurrent infections in the neck.
7. A healthcare provider performs the excision of deep jugular lymph nodes to determine the cause of persistent pain in a patient’s neck.
8. During a surgical procedure, a surgeon excises lymph nodes deep in the jugular area to assess the extent of disease in a patient’s neck.
9. A patient undergoes the excision of deep jugular lymph nodes to investigate the cause of unexplained swelling and tenderness in the neck.
10. A healthcare provider performs the excision of deep jugular lymph nodes to evaluate the presence of abnormal growths in a patient’s neck.