How To Use CPT Code 96920

CPT 96920 describes the use of an ultraviolet B (UVB) laser to treat severe inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis, on a total area of less than 250 square centimeters. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 96920?

CPT 96920 can be used to describe the laser treatment of severe inflammatory skin diseases, specifically psoriasis, using an ultraviolet B (UVB) laser. This code is used when the treatment area is less than 250 square centimeters.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 96920 is: ‘Laser treatment for inflammatory skin disease (psoriasis); total area less than 250 sq cm.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider explains the potential risks and benefits of the treatment to the patient.
2. Mineral oil is applied over the treatment area to enhance the penetration of UVB light and minimize scattering of the light rays.
3. The provider uses an excimer laser to deliver UVB light at a wavelength of 308 nm.
4. The light is delivered in short bursts, with the provider sweeping the light back and forth over the treatment area.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 96920 is used for patients with severe inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis, that require laser treatment. The treatment area must be less than 250 square centimeters. The provider must use an ultraviolet B (UVB) laser and apply mineral oil over the treatment area prior to UVB exposure.

5. When to use CPT code 96920

CPT code 96920 should be used when a provider performs laser treatment for severe inflammatory skin diseases, specifically psoriasis, on a total area of less than 250 square centimeters. If the treatment area is between 250 and 500 square centimeters, CPT code 96921 should be used. For treatment areas greater than 500 square centimeters, CPT code 96922 should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 96920, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of severe inflammatory skin disease, such as psoriasis
• Explanation of the potential risks and benefits of the treatment
• Application of mineral oil over the treatment area
• Date and duration of the treatment session
• Use of an ultraviolet B (UVB) laser at a wavelength of 308 nm
• Delivery of the UVB light in short bursts, sweeping back and forth over the treatment area

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 96920, ensure that the treatment area is less than 250 square centimeters. If the treatment area is between 250 and 500 square centimeters, use CPT code 96921. For treatment areas greater than 500 square centimeters, use CPT code 96922. It is important to note that CPT code 96920 should not be reported with other codes in the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT code 96920 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A dermatologist using an ultraviolet B (UVB) laser to treat severe psoriasis on a total area of 200 square centimeters.
2. A patient with severe inflammatory skin disease receiving laser treatment for psoriasis on a total area of 150 square centimeters.
3. A provider performing laser treatment for severe inflammatory skin disease (psoriasis) on a total area of 240 square centimeters.
4. A dermatologist using an excimer laser to treat severe psoriasis on a total area of 180 square centimeters.
5. A patient with severe inflammatory skin disease receiving laser treatment for psoriasis on a total area of 220 square centimeters.
6. A provider performing laser treatment for severe inflammatory skin disease (psoriasis) on a total area of 230 square centimeters.
7. A dermatologist using an ultraviolet B (UVB) laser to treat severe psoriasis on a total area of 190 square centimeters.
8. A patient with severe inflammatory skin disease receiving laser treatment for psoriasis on a total area of 210 square centimeters.
9. A provider performing laser treatment for severe inflammatory skin disease (psoriasis) on a total area of 240 square centimeters.
10. A dermatologist using an excimer laser to treat severe psoriasis on a total area of 200 square centimeters.