How To Use CPT Code 56515

CPT 56515 describes the eradication of extensive lesions on the external genitals of a female patient using various methods such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, or chemosurgery. 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 56515?

CPT 56515 can be used to describe the destruction of extensive lesions on the external genitals of a female patient. This code is used when the provider uses methods such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, or chemosurgery to eradicate one or more lesions. The purpose of this procedure is to relieve patient discomfort and prevent the spread of certain types of lesions.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 56515 is: ‘Destruction of lesion(s), vulva; extensive (eg, laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery).’ It is important to note that for the destruction of Skene’s gland cyst or abscess, a different code (53270) should be used. Similarly, for cautery destruction of urethral caruncle, a different code (53265) should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia as necessary.
2. The provider identifies the extensive lesions in the vulva.
3. The provider selects the appropriate treatment method, such as laser ablation, electrocauterization, or the application of liquid nitrogen or another chemical.
4. The provider applies the chosen treatment to each lesion to destroy it.
5. The provider ensures that the patient is comfortable and monitors for any adverse reactions or complications.
6. The provider may provide post-procedure instructions and schedule follow-up appointments if necessary.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 56515 is performed on female patients with extensive lesions on the external genitals. The procedure is suitable for patients who require the eradication of these lesions to alleviate discomfort and prevent their spread. The provider must use methods such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, or chemosurgery to qualify for this code.

5. When to use CPT code 56515

CPT code 56515 should be used when a provider performs the destruction of extensive lesions on the external genitals of a female patient using methods such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, or chemosurgery. It is important to accurately document the extent of the lesions and the specific treatment method used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 56515, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the lesions and their extent
• Specific treatment method used (laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, or chemosurgery)
• Date of the procedure
• Any anesthesia administered
• Post-procedure instructions given to the patient
• Any follow-up appointments scheduled

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 56515, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for extensive lesion destruction on the vulva. It is important to accurately report the treatment method used (laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, or chemosurgery). Additionally, consider any specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the use of this code. It is also important to note that CPT code 56515 should not be reported if CPT codes 98966 to 98968 have already been performed in the previous seven days.

8. Historical information

CPT 56515 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code was later changed on January 1, 2002 to its current description of ‘Destruction of lesion(s), vulva; extensive, any method.’

9. Examples

1. A provider using laser surgery to destroy extensive lesions on the vulva of a female patient.
2. A provider performing electrosurgery to eradicate multiple lesions on the external genitals of a female patient.
3. A provider using cryosurgery to treat extensive lesions on the vulva of a female patient.
4. A provider applying chemosurgery to destroy lesions on the external genitals of a female patient.
5. A provider using laser surgery to eradicate extensive lesions on the vulva of a female patient.
6. A provider performing electrosurgery to treat multiple lesions on the external genitals of a female patient.
7. A provider using cryosurgery to destroy extensive lesions on the vulva of a female patient.
8. A provider applying chemosurgery to eradicate lesions on the external genitals of a female patient.
9. A provider using laser surgery to treat extensive lesions on the vulva of a female patient.
10. A provider performing electrosurgery to destroy multiple lesions on the external genitals of a female patient.