How To Use CPT Code 60000

CPT 60000 describes the procedure of incision and drainage of an infected thyroglossal duct cyst. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 60000?

CPT 60000 is used to describe the incision and drainage of an infected thyroglossal duct cyst. This procedure involves making a small incision to puncture the skin of the cyst and allowing the pus to drain out. It is typically performed by a healthcare provider when the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 60000 is: ‘Incision and drainage of thyroglossal duct cyst, infected.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure and ensures they are properly anesthetized.
2. A small incision is made to puncture the skin of the infected thyroglossal duct cyst.
3. The provider allows the pus to escape by draining it out through the incision or through a tube.
4. The site is then covered with a sterile dressing to promote healing and prevent infection.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 60000 is used when the patient has an infected thyroglossal duct cyst. This type of cyst is caused by a segment of the thyroglossal duct that did not close or disappear during embryonic development. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider to alleviate the infection and promote healing.

5. When to use CPT code 60000

CPT code 60000 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the incision and drainage procedure on an infected thyroglossal duct cyst. It is important to note that this code is specific to cases involving an infected cyst and should not be used for other types of cysts or procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 60000, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of an infected thyroglossal duct cyst
• Details of the procedure, including the size and location of the cyst
• Date and time of the procedure
• Method used for incision and drainage
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 60000, ensure that the procedure performed is specifically for an infected thyroglossal duct cyst. It is important to follow the documentation requirements and provide accurate information to support the claim. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or modifiers that may be required by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 60000 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 healthcare provider performs an incision and drainage procedure on an infected thyroglossal duct cyst in a patient.
2. A patient presents with an infected thyroglossal duct cyst, and the healthcare provider performs the necessary incision and drainage procedure.
3. During a surgical procedure, a healthcare provider identifies an infected thyroglossal duct cyst and performs an incision and drainage to alleviate the infection.
4. A patient with an infected thyroglossal duct cyst undergoes an incision and drainage procedure to promote healing and prevent further complications.
5. A healthcare provider performs an incision and drainage procedure on an infected thyroglossal duct cyst, ensuring proper care and management of the patient’s condition.
6. After diagnosing an infected thyroglossal duct cyst, a healthcare provider performs an incision and drainage procedure to address the infection and improve the patient’s health.
7. A patient with an infected thyroglossal duct cyst undergoes an incision and drainage procedure to relieve symptoms and prevent the spread of infection.
8. A healthcare provider performs an incision and drainage procedure on an infected thyroglossal duct cyst, following proper sterile techniques and ensuring patient comfort.
9. During a surgical intervention, a healthcare provider identifies an infected thyroglossal duct cyst and promptly performs an incision and drainage procedure to address the infection.
10. A patient with an infected thyroglossal duct cyst receives timely and appropriate care through an incision and drainage procedure performed by a healthcare provider.