CPT® Code 15013

Preparation of skin cell suspension autograft, requiring enzymatic processing, manual mechanical disaggregation of skin cells, and filtration; first 25 sq cm or less of harvested skin

A skin cell suspension autograft (SCSA) is a specialized procedure designed to prepare a graft from harvested skin to effectively cover partial-thickness wounds. This process involves several critical steps, including enzymatic processing, manual mechanical disaggregation of skin cells, and filtration. The harvested skin, which is typically very thin, measuring between 0.006 to 0.008 inches in thickness, is meticulously cut into smaller strips, usually sized at 2 cm by 3 cm. These strips are then placed into an SCSA device where they undergo enzymatic incubation for a duration of 15 to 20 minutes. This enzymatic treatment is essential as it facilitates the breakdown of the skin tissue, allowing for the easier separation of individual skin cells. Following this incubation, the physician assesses the skin to determine if the cells can be easily disaggregated. If the skin has not been sufficiently processed, it is returned for further enzymatic treatment. Once the skin cells are adequately separated, they are rinsed with a buffer solution and placed dermal side down on a mechanical scraping tray. The physician then employs vigorous scraping techniques from various orientations to ensure complete removal of the cells. After scraping, the collected cells are rinsed to capture any remaining cells, and a syringe is used to draw up the SCSA cells from the collection tray. Finally, these cells are filtered through a cell strainer to prepare them for application. The CPT® Code 15013 is specifically designated for the preparation of the first 25 square centimeters or less of previously harvested skin, while CPT® Code 15014 is applicable for each additional 25 square centimeters or portion thereof.