In CPT coding, which code reports an excisional procedure?

In CPT coding, which code reports an excisional procedure?

• A. 55840
• B. 55650
• C. 55200
• D. 56650

Answer: (B)

Excisional procedures are coded when tissue is removed in one piece, with the goal of complete removal (often with margins). In CPT coding, you choose the code that explicitly describes an excision, not just any removal or incision. The correct code is the one whose official description uses the term excision or excisional, indicating that the action was full removal of a lesion or tissue. The other options describe actions that do not meet excision criteria, such as making an incision for biopsy or performing a repair, which are handled with different codes. So pick the code whose descriptor confirms tissue has been removed entirely (excision), rather than codes that refer to incision-only or repair-type procedures.

Excisional procedures are coded when tissue is removed in one piece, with the goal of complete removal (often with margins). In CPT coding, you choose the code that explicitly describes an excision, not just any removal or incision. The correct code is the one whose official description uses the term excision or excisional, indicating that the action was full removal of a lesion or tissue. The other options describe actions that do not meet excision criteria, such as making an incision for biopsy or performing a repair, which are handled with different codes. So pick the code whose descriptor confirms tissue has been removed entirely (excision), rather than codes that refer to incision-only or repair-type procedures.