CPT® Code 15115

Epidermal autograft, face, scalp, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, feet, and/or multiple digits; first 100 sq cm or less, or 1% of body area of infants and children

Epidermal autografts are specialized surgical procedures that involve the transplantation of skin tissue, specifically the epidermis, from one area of the body to another. This type of graft is particularly relevant for reconstructive purposes, especially in cases where the skin has been damaged due to injury, surgery, or disease. The procedure is commonly performed on sensitive areas such as the face, scalp, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, feet, and multiple digits. The harvesting of the graft typically occurs from donor sites like the thigh, buttocks, abdominal wall, or scalp, where the skin can be safely removed without significant cosmetic impact. During the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to the donor site to minimize discomfort, and epinephrine may be used to control bleeding. The use of a dermatome, a specialized surgical instrument, allows for precise harvesting of the epidermis while preserving the underlying dermis as much as possible. This technique ensures that the graft is thin and suitable for successful integration at the recipient site. Once harvested, the graft may be prepared using a meshing device to increase its surface area, facilitating better adherence and healing when placed over the wound bed. The graft is then secured in place using sutures, staples, or fibrin sealant, ensuring stability during the healing process. This procedure is coded under CPT® Code 15115 for the first 100 square centimeters or less in adults or for 1% of total body surface area in infants and children, with additional grafting procedures coded separately.