CPT® Code 17312

Add-On Code

Mohs micrographic technique, including removal of all gross tumor, surgical excision of tissue specimens, mapping, color coding of specimens, microscopic examination of specimens by the surgeon, and histopathologic preparation including routine stain(s) (eg, hematoxylin and eosin, toluidine blue), head, neck, hands, feet, genitalia, or any location with surgery directly involving muscle, cartilage, bone, tendon, major nerves, or vessels; each additional stage after the first stage, up to 5 tissue blocks (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The Mohs micrographic surgery technique, denoted by CPT® Code 17312, is a specialized surgical procedure designed for the precise removal of complex or ill-defined skin cancers, particularly basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. This technique is unique as it allows the physician to perform both the surgical excision and the pathological examination of the tumor in real-time. The process involves the meticulous removal of the tumor in thin layers, which are then immediately examined microscopically to ensure complete removal of cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The surgeon employs a method of mapping and color coding the excised tissue specimens, which aids in accurately identifying the location of any remaining cancer cells. This precision is critical, as it significantly enhances the recovery rate for patients undergoing this type of surgery. The procedure is applicable to various anatomical locations, including the head, neck, hands, feet, genitalia, and any area where surgery may involve critical structures such as muscle, cartilage, bone, tendon, major nerves, or vessels. For billing purposes, the first stage of the Mohs procedure is coded with CPT® Code 17311, while CPT® Code 17312 is used for each additional stage performed, up to five tissue blocks.