CPT® Code 15240

Full thickness graft, free, including direct closure of donor site, forehead, cheeks, chin, mouth, neck, axillae, genitalia, hands, and/or feet; 20 sq cm or less

The procedure described by CPT® Code 15240 involves the harvesting of a full-thickness skin graft from a designated donor site, which may include areas such as the forehead, cheeks, chin, mouth, neck, axillae, genitalia, hands, and/or feet. A full-thickness graft is characterized by the inclusion of all layers of the skin, which encompasses the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat, along with associated blood vessels. This type of graft is essential for reconstructive purposes, particularly in cases where significant skin loss has occurred due to trauma, surgical excision, or other medical conditions. After the graft is harvested, the donor site is closed directly, ensuring minimal scarring and optimal healing. The harvested graft is then meticulously positioned over the defect area, which is the site requiring repair. Following the placement of the graft, both the defect and the graft are secured in place using sutures, promoting proper integration and healing of the graft into the surrounding tissue. This code specifically applies to grafts that cover an area of 20 square centimeters or less. For larger areas, additional coding with CPT® Code 15241 is required to account for each additional 20 square centimeters or any portion thereof, ensuring accurate reporting and reimbursement for the procedure performed.