Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Question: How should we code excision of a preauricular sinus?

Vermont Subscriber

Answer: You should use excision of lesion codes in the Integumentary System section of CPT. Select the correct code from the 11440-11446 series, depending on the size of the excision.

Layered or complex closure may be billed separately, selecting the correct code based on the size of the wound. Layered or intermediate closure is reported from the 12051*-12057 series, while complex closure is reported from the 13131-+13133 series.

An alternative code may be appropriate should the preauricular cyst extend down to the subcutaneous level: 42810 (Excision branchial cleft cyst or vestige, confined to skin and subcutaneous tissues).