Overview of CPT Code 11300: Removal of skin lesion, excised, benign, face, ears, scalp, neck

CPT Code 11300 refers to the surgical excision of a benign skin lesion located on the face, ears, scalp, or neck. This procedure is typically performed to remove lesions that are non-cancerous but may cause cosmetic concerns or discomfort.

When CPT Code 11300 is Used?

This code is applicable in various clinical scenarios, including:

Removal of benign moles or skin tags that are bothersome or unsightly.
Excision of seborrheic keratosis that may be irritating or cosmetically undesirable.
Surgical intervention for dermatofibromas that are symptomatic or for cosmetic reasons.
Excision of other benign lesions that require histological examination.

Symptoms Indicating This Procedure

Patients may report the following symptoms that lead to the consideration of this procedure:

Visible skin lesions that are growing or changing in appearance.
Itching or irritation associated with the lesion.
Bleeding or oozing from the lesion.
Cosmetic concerns regarding the appearance of the lesion.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of benign skin lesions, including:

Genetic predisposition to skin growths.
Sun exposure leading to skin changes.
Age-related skin changes.
Hormonal changes that may influence skin growth.

Diagnostic Tests Before Procedure

Before proceeding with the excision, the following diagnostic tests may be performed:

Physical examination of the lesion to assess size, shape, and characteristics.
Dermatoscopy to evaluate the lesion's features more closely.
Biopsy may be performed if there is uncertainty about the nature of the lesion.

Procedure Description

The procedure typically follows these steps:

Patient is positioned comfortably and the area around the lesion is cleaned.
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
The surgeon excises the lesion along with a margin of healthy skin.
The wound is closed with sutures or adhesive strips, depending on the size.
Post-operative instructions are provided to the patient.

Preparation for the Procedure

Patients should follow these steps to prepare for the procedure:

Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen for a week prior.
Inform the physician of any allergies or medical conditions.
Arrive at the appointment with clean skin and avoid applying lotions or makeup.

Recovery and Aftercare

Patients can expect the following during recovery:

The recovery period typically lasts 1-2 weeks.
Keep the surgical site clean and dry, following specific wound care instructions.
Over-the-counter pain relievers may be used to manage discomfort.
Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness or discharge.