CPT® Code 24073

The procedure described by CPT® Code 24073 involves the excision of a tumor located in the soft tissue of the upper arm or elbow area, specifically when the tumor is subfascial, meaning it is situated beneath the fascia, which is a layer of connective tissue. Soft tissues encompass a variety of 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 removed through excision, while small malignant or indeterminate tumors may also be excised if they have well-defined margins. The excision process may involve making an incision in the skin directly over the tumor or creating and elevating a skin flap to access the tumor. Once the overlying tissue is dissected, the soft tissue mass is exposed, allowing for the tumor to be excised along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. In some cases, a frozen section may be performed to verify that the margins are free of tumor cells, which is a separate reportable procedure. After the tumor is excised, drains may be placed as necessary, and the surgical wound is typically closed in layers to promote proper healing. For smaller tumors in the subcutaneous fat or connective tissue, different CPT codes are applicable, such as 24075 for excision of tumors less than 3 cm and 24071 for those 3 cm or greater. For tumors located below the fascia, CPT code 24076 is used for excision of tumors less than 5 cm, while CPT code 24073 is specifically designated for excision of tumors that are 5 cm or greater.