CPT® Code 13160

Secondary closure of an extensive or complicated surgical wound or wound dehiscence refers to a surgical procedure aimed at closing wounds that either were not closed during the initial surgery or have reopened along the original suture line. This procedure is necessary when a surgical wound has not healed properly, leading to complications that require further intervention. The term "secondary closure" indicates that this is a follow-up procedure, distinct from the original surgical operation, and is performed in a separate surgical session. During this process, the edges of the wound are meticulously trimmed to promote optimal healing. The closure technique may involve the use of absorbable sutures for deeper layers, with the knots buried to minimize irritation, while non-absorbable sutures are typically used for the superficial layers. In some cases, retention sutures may be employed to secure the wound edges without applying tension, utilizing tubing to facilitate this process. Additionally, stents may be utilized to maintain the position of the tissue or to keep an orifice open. Careful alignment of the wound edges is crucial to prevent complications such as scar depression. In instances of wound dehiscence, the procedure involves evaluating the extent of the opening, irrigating the wound with sterile solutions, removing any previous sutures, and debriding necrotic tissue before proceeding with the closure as described.