CPT® Code 10035

Placement of soft tissue localization device(s) (eg, clip, metallic pellet, wire/needle, radioactive seeds), percutaneous, including imaging guidance; first lesion

The procedure described by CPT® Code 10035 involves the placement of soft tissue localization devices, which are essential tools used to mark the precise location of a lesion prior to surgical intervention, such as a biopsy or en bloc removal. These localization devices can include various forms such as clips, metallic pellets, wires or needles, and radioactive seeds. The primary purpose of this procedure is to ensure that the physician can accurately identify the lesion site during the surgical procedure. This is particularly important in cases where the lesion may not be easily palpable or visible. The process begins with the marking of the area of concern on the patient's skin, followed by the acquisition of radiological images that depict the target tissue. Utilizing these images, a needle is carefully advanced into the lesion, and additional imaging is performed to confirm the correct placement of the needle within the mass. For wire localization, a hooked wire is inserted at a perpendicular angle to the lesion using a needle, ensuring that the wire remains anchored within the mass once the needle is withdrawn, with a portion of the wire extending out through the skin. Alternatively, a plastic stylette equipped with a localization device, such as a clip, metallic pellet, or radioactive seed, is inserted through the biopsy needle and guided to the lesion site using radiographic assistance. Upon reaching the target area, the localization device is released into the soft tissue lesion, and both the stylette and needle are subsequently removed. This procedure is critical for enhancing the accuracy of surgical interventions and is billed under CPT® Code 10035 for the first lesion, with additional lesions being billed under CPT® Code 10036.