CPT® Code 17274

Destruction, malignant lesion (eg, laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, surgical curettement), scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitalia; lesion diameter 3.1 to 4.0 cm

The CPT® Code 17274 refers to the destruction of malignant lesions located on specific areas of the body, including the scalp, neck, hands, feet, and genitalia, with a lesion diameter ranging from 3.1 to 4.0 cm. Malignant lesions of the skin can include various types of cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. The procedure involves a thorough examination of the lesion to determine the most suitable method of destruction. Depending on the case, a local anesthetic may be administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Various techniques can be employed for the destruction of the lesion, including cryosurgery, which utilizes liquid nitrogen to freeze the lesion through a series of freeze-thaw cycles. Alternatively, surgical curettage followed by electrosurgery may be used to effectively remove the lesion. In cases where multiple lesions are present, treatment may involve the application of chemical or pharmacologic agents or the use of laser resurfacing techniques, such as a carbon dioxide laser. It is important to note that during the destruction process, the physician not only targets the malignant lesion but also removes a surrounding border of normal tissue to ensure complete excision. For accurate coding, it is essential to differentiate this procedure from others based on the size of the lesion, with specific codes assigned for varying diameters, such as 17270 for lesions less than 0.5 cm, 17271 for lesions measuring 0.6-1.0 cm, 17272 for lesions 1.1-2.0 cm, 17273 for lesions 2.1-3.0 cm, and 17276 for lesions exceeding 4.0 cm.