CPT® Code 15260

The procedure described by CPT® Code 15260 involves the harvesting of a full-thickness skin graft from a designated donor site, which may include areas such as the nose, ears, eyelids, and/or lips. 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 areas where cosmetic and functional integrity is critical. 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 area and the graft itself are secured in place using sutures, promoting proper adherence and healing. This procedure is specifically indicated for defects that do not exceed 20 square centimeters in size. For larger defects, additional coding with CPT® Code 15261 is required to account for each additional 20 square centimeters or any portion thereof, ensuring accurate reporting and reimbursement for the services rendered.