AHA Coding Clinic® for HCPCS - 2024 Issue 1; Ask the Editor

Reporting the application of a dermal substitute

A patient with malignant melanoma of the right foot, presented for wide excision of the melanoma and sentinel node biopsies. Following completion of the biopsies, attention was turned to the lateral right foot. A 1 x 1.5 cm scar consistent with the former shave biopsy site was located; a 2 cm circumferential margin around the scar (4.5 x 6 cm) was incised. Electrocautery was used to divide the dermis and subcutaneous tissue down to the periosteum. The specimen was amputated at its base through the avascular plane, superficial to the periosteum. Due to the size and anatomic location, the wound could not be closed primarily. A piece of acellular bovine collagen dermal substitute was secured with staples over the wound to the skin. A non-adherent sterile dressing was secured over the graft followed by a dry dressing. How is the dermal substitute and its application reported for this case? ...

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