What code is used for a simple excision of a benign skin lesion?

The code 11420 is specifically designated for the excision of a benign skin lesion that is 0.5 cm or less in diameter. This includes both the excision of the lesion itself and the surrounding tissue, which is essential in differentiating benign lesions from other types. This procedure typically involves cutting out the lesion along with a margin of normal skin to ensure complete removal and minimize the chance of recurrence.

The importance of this code lies in its specificity for benign lesions, making it widely used in dermatological practices. The coding guidelines for 11420 detail that it applies to lesions that are simple excisions, emphasizing the procedural context and ensuring accurate billing for such treatments.

In contrast, the other codes provided refer to different procedures: 14040 pertains to the use of adjacent tissue transfer for defects, 17281 is for the destruction of malignant skin lesions, and 37182 relates to the excision of a subcutaneous tissue lesion, indicating they are not relevant for coding a simple excision of a benign skin lesion. Understanding the precise use of these codes is critical for accurate medical documentation and billing practices.