tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2000 Issue 1

Reader Question: Necrotizing Fasciitis

Question: What is the CPT code for radical debridement of the lower abdominal wall, including anterior fascia of the rectus abdominis muscle, fistulogram and drainage, and antibiotic irrigation and packing? The diagnosis was acute necrotizing fasciitis of the abdominal wall.Anonymous California SubscriberAnswer: Typically, debridements are coded 11040-11044 when they are for skin and/or muscle. In the situation described by the reader in which the wound is so large, however, the debridement is much more complex than these codes allow, says Karen Evans, RN, CPC, CCS-P, a coding and reimbursement specialist in Mount Vernon, Wash. She suggests using unlisted...

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