© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 15005 pertains to the surgical preparation or creation of a recipient site through the excision of open wounds, burn eschar, or scars, which may include the underlying subcutaneous tissues. This procedure is particularly relevant for addressing scar contractures in various anatomical locations, including the face, scalp, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, feet, and multiple digits. The process may involve incisional release of scar contractures, which is essential for restoring function and improving the appearance of the affected area. Additionally, the procedure may include simple debridement or the removal of granulation tissue to ensure that a healthy bed of vascular tissue is available for subsequent skin grafting. This preparation is crucial for the successful placement of a skin graft, which is reported separately. The code also specifies that for infants and children, the measurement of the area treated is based on either each additional 100 square centimeters or each additional 1% of body area, allowing for precise billing in accordance with the extent of the surgical intervention. It is important to note that this code is to be reported in conjunction with the primary procedure code, specifically code 15004, which covers the surgical preparation of the first 100 square centimeters or 1% of body area in infants and children.
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