CPT® Code 15017

Application of skin cell suspension autograft to wound and donor sites, including application of primary dressing, face, scalp, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, feet, and/or multiple digits; first 480 sq cm or less

Skin cell suspension autograft (SCSA) is a specialized procedure used to treat partial thickness wounds located on sensitive areas of the body, including the face, scalp, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, feet, and multiple digits. This technique is particularly beneficial for wounds resulting from thermal burns, which often do not penetrate deeply into the skin layers. The SCSA can be applied directly to the wound without the need for an additional split thickness skin graft, making it a less invasive option for wound management. The procedure involves the careful application of a primary dressing that is designed to be non-adherent and features small pores to facilitate healing. This dressing is meticulously contoured to fit the wound bed and is secured at the lower border using adhesives, sutures, or staples to ensure it remains in place. The SCSA is then evenly sprayed over the prepared wound bed and donor site, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Following this, the primary dressing is fully affixed over the wound, extending to the edges and secured with additional staples, glue, or sutures. To enhance protection and absorb any exudate, a secondary absorbent dressing is layered over the primary dressing, followed by a third layer of absorbent gauze and bandaging. This structured approach not only promotes healing but also minimizes the risk of infection and complications associated with wound care.