CPT® Code 11403

Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), trunk, arms or legs; excised diameter 2.1 to 3.0 cm

The procedure described by CPT® Code 11403 involves the excision of a benign lesion from the trunk, arms, or legs, specifically when the excised diameter of the lesion measures between 2.1 to 3.0 cm. A benign lesion is defined as a non-cancerous growth that does not pose a threat to health, and it excludes skin tags unless specified otherwise. Common examples of benign lesions that may be excised include lipomas, which are fatty tumors; dermatofibromas, which are fibrous skin growths; pyogenic granulomas, which are small, red, and raised lesions; epidermoid cysts, which are small lumps beneath the skin; and benign nevi, commonly known as moles. During the procedure, the area surrounding the lesion is first cleansed to reduce the risk of infection, followed by the administration of a local anesthetic to ensure patient comfort. The surgeon then identifies a narrow margin of healthy tissue surrounding the lesion to ensure complete removal. A full-thickness incision is made through the dermis, and the incision is carefully carried around the lesion to excise it entirely. After excision, the lesion is sent to a laboratory for histologic evaluation, which is separately reportable. To manage any bleeding that may occur during the procedure, electrocautery or chemical cautery techniques are employed. Finally, the surgical wound may be closed using a simple single-layer suture technique, although more complex methods such as intermediate (layer) closure, complex repair, skin grafts, or pedicle flaps may also be utilized depending on the specific circumstances of the excision and the wound's characteristics.