AHA Coding Clinic® for HCPCS - 2020 Quarter 3; Ask the Editor
CO2 and PDL laser ablations
Our facility has begun performing laser procedures on burn scars using both CO2 laser and pulsed dye laser (PDL). In one example, a patient who had sustained burns to 70% of total body surface area (TBSA) presented with hypertrophic and hypervascular burn scars to bilateral ears, bilateral chest, abdomen, back, buttocks, arms, hands, legs, feet. PDL was used for one pass to all affected areas to an endpoint of blanching somewhat purple. Then all of the people in the room changed glasses and donned laser masks and CO2 was used over the same areas. What is the correct CPT code(s) for this procedure. ...
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Article Overview
This article discusses coding considerations for laser treatment of burn scars when more than one laser modality is used in the same procedure. It is intended for coders and billing staff who need to understand how Find-A-Code approaches CPT reporting for this type of burn-scar service and why an unlisted procedure code may be involved.
Why This Topic Matters
Laser treatment of burn scars can involve multiple modalities in a single session, creating CPT reporting questions for facilities and coding teams. Understanding the article helps determine how this service is categorized for coding review and claim support.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames CPT reporting for combined laser treatment of burn scars
- What general coding topic is raised when multiple laser modalities are used in one session
- Why this service is discussed as a coding question rather than a routine code assignment topic
- How unlisted procedure reporting is presented in the context of this burn-scar example
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Billing staff
- Revenue cycle teams
- Plastic surgery and burn care practices
Codes Discussed
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