CPT® Code 14000

An adjacent tissue transfer or rearrangement is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing defects located on the trunk of the body. These defects can arise from various causes, including traumatic wounds, lacerations, or surgical excisions of lesions or scars. In cases where a lesion or scar is present, the initial step involves excising this tissue to create a primary defect. The surgeon then evaluates the primary defect to determine the most suitable method for tissue transfer or rearrangement. Various techniques may be employed, including Z-plasty, W-plasty, V-Y-plasty, rotation flaps, advancement flaps, or double pedicle flaps. During the procedure, adjacent skin and subcutaneous tissue are carefully incised and elevated, ensuring that one or more borders of the tissue remain attached, which results in the formation of a secondary defect. To facilitate the movement of the skin flaps, the surrounding tissue is undermined. The next step involves transferring or rearranging the tissue to effectively cover the primary defect. Depending on the situation, the transfer may also address the secondary defect, or alternatively, the secondary defect may be closed using a separately reportable skin graft. Accurate measurement of both the primary and secondary defects is essential to determine the appropriate coding, with CPT® Code 14000 designated for defects measuring 10 square centimeters or less, and CPT® Code 14001 applicable for defects ranging from 10.1 to 30 square centimeters.