CPT® Code 11313

Shaving of epidermal or dermal lesion, single lesion, face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, mucous membrane; lesion diameter over 2.0 cm

The procedure described by CPT® Code 11313 involves the shaving of a single epidermal or dermal lesion located on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membrane, specifically when the lesion has a diameter exceeding 2.0 cm. This technique is commonly employed for the removal of various types of lesions, including pedunculated lesions, seborrheic keratoses, fibrous papules, and other similar growths that possess a minimal dermal component. The shaving procedure is designed to extend only to the middle dermis, thereby preserving the integrity of the subcutaneous layer beneath. Prior to the shaving process, the area is thoroughly cleansed, and a local anesthetic is administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. The actual removal of the lesion is performed using a surgical blade, which may involve either a transverse incision or repetitive horizontal slicing in a consistent direction. Following the excision, the physician carefully inspects the surrounding tissue to confirm that the entire lesion has been successfully removed. To finalize the procedure, the edges of the wound are smoothed, and any bleeding is controlled through the use of electrocautery or chemical cautery. Additionally, the shaved specimen is sent to a laboratory for histologic evaluation, which is reportable separately. It is important to note that different CPT codes are designated for lesions of varying sizes, with CPT® Code 11310 applicable for lesions measuring 0.5 cm or less, CPT® Code 11311 for lesions between 0.6 and 1.0 cm, CPT® Code 11312 for lesions ranging from 1.1 to 2.0 cm, and CPT® Code 11313 specifically for lesions that exceed 2.0 cm in diameter.