CPT® Code 60252

The procedure described by CPT® Code 60252 involves a thyroidectomy, which is a surgical operation to remove all or part of the thyroid gland, specifically for the treatment of malignancy. The thyroid gland is an essential endocrine organ located in the neck, composed of two lobes connected by a central isthmus. A total thyroidectomy entails the complete removal of the thyroid gland, while a subtotal thyroidectomy involves the removal of one entire lobe, the isthmus, and most of the opposite lobe. This procedure is performed through a transverse incision in the skin over the thyroid, allowing access to the gland. During the surgery, critical structures such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands are identified and preserved to minimize complications. Following the thyroidectomy, a limited neck dissection is conducted, which involves the careful inspection and excision of lymph nodes in the parathyroid region that may be involved with malignancy. This approach aims to ensure comprehensive treatment of thyroid cancer while maintaining the integrity of surrounding anatomical structures.