CPT® Code 19286

Add-On Code

Placement of breast localization device(s) (eg, clip, metallic pellet, wire/needle, radioactive seeds), percutaneous; each additional lesion, including ultrasound guidance (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The CPT® Code 19286 refers to the procedure of placing breast localization devices, which are essential tools used to mark the precise location of a lesion in the breast prior to surgical interventions such as a biopsy or lumpectomy. These localization devices can include various forms such as clips, metallic pellets, wires or needles, and radioactive seeds. The primary purpose of this procedure is to ensure that the physician can accurately identify the lesion site during surgery. The process begins with the marking of the area of concern on the skin, followed by the acquisition of ultrasound images of the breast. A transducer is employed to locate the lesion, and the physician uses these images to guide a needle into the lesion. Throughout this process, the radiologist continuously monitors the needle's placement to confirm it is correctly positioned within the mass. For wire localization, a hooked wire is inserted at a perpendicular angle to the lesion using a needle, remaining anchored in place when the needle is withdrawn, with a portion of the wire extending outside the skin. Alternatively, a plastic stylet equipped with a localization device is inserted through the biopsy needle and advanced to the lesion site under ultrasonic guidance, where the localization device is released before the removal of the stylet and needle. It is important to note that CPT® Code 19286 is specifically used for each additional lesion after the first, which is coded under 19285.