CPT® Code 11606

The CPT® Code 11606 refers to the excision of a malignant lesion from the trunk, arms, or legs, where the excised diameter exceeds 4.0 cm. This procedure involves the removal of not only the malignant tissue but also a margin of healthy tissue surrounding the lesion to ensure complete excision. Common types of malignant lesions that may be excised using this code include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, verrucous carcinoma, and melanoma. The process begins with the cleansing of the area and the administration of a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure. A careful identification of a healthy tissue margin is crucial, followed by a full-thickness incision made through the dermis. The incision is meticulously carried around the lesion, allowing for the complete excision of the malignant tissue. In some cases, a frozen section may be performed during the excision to verify that the margins are clear of malignant cells. If any malignant tissue is detected at the margins, additional tissue will be excised until all margins are confirmed to be clean. The excised lesion is then 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.