CPT® Code 23073

The CPT® Code 23073 refers to the excision of a tumor located in the soft tissue of the shoulder area, specifically when the tumor is subfascial, meaning it lies beneath the fascia. The term "soft tissue" encompasses various structures, including subcutaneous fat, connective tissue, fascia, muscles, tendons, blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves, and the tissues surrounding joints. Tumors found in these soft tissues can be either benign or malignant. Typically, benign tumors are treated through excision, while small malignant or indeterminate tumors may also be excised if they have well-defined margins. The procedure involves making an incision in the skin over the tumor or creating and elevating a skin flap, followed by dissection of the overlying tissue to expose the soft tissue mass. The tumor is excised along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. In some cases, a frozen section may be performed to verify that all margins are free of tumor cells. After the excision, drains may be placed as necessary, and the surgical wound is closed in layers. It is important to note that for tumors located in the subcutaneous fat or connective tissue, different CPT codes are applicable based on the size of the mass, while tumors that are subfascial and measure 5 cm or greater are specifically coded with 23073.