CPT® Code 11426

Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitalia; excised diameter over 4.0 cm

The CPT® Code 11426 refers to the excision of a benign lesion, which is a non-cancerous growth, from specific anatomical locations including the scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitalia. This procedure is performed on lesions that have an excised diameter exceeding 4.0 cm, and it is important to note that skin tags are excluded from this code unless they are specified elsewhere. Common types of benign lesions that may be excised using this code 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, and a local anesthetic is administered to minimize discomfort. A careful identification of a narrow margin of healthy tissue surrounding the lesion is crucial, as this ensures complete removal of the lesion along with a sufficient margin to reduce the risk of recurrence. A full-thickness incision is then made through the dermis, encircling the lesion to excise it entirely. The excised tissue is typically sent to a laboratory for histologic evaluation, which is a separate reportable service. To manage any bleeding that may occur during the procedure, electrocautery or chemical cautery techniques are employed. After the excision, the surgical wound may be closed using a simple single-layer suture technique; however, more complex closure 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 size of the wound.