What is the description for code 11 00 in terms of debridement of extensive eczema, toast (possibly referring to infected skin), or infected skin in relation to body surface area?

CPT Code 11001 Description

CPT code 11001 is defined as "Debridement of extensive eczematous or infected skin; each additional 10% of the body surface, or part thereof (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)."

This code is an add-on code that must be used in conjunction with the primary procedure code 11000, which covers the initial 10% of body surface area (BSA) debridement.

Understanding CPT Code 11001

Primary Components

• This is an add-on code only - cannot be used alone
• Must be used with primary code 11000
• Covers each additional 10% BSA (or part thereof) beyond the initial 10%
• Applies specifically to debridement of extensive eczematous or infected skin

Coding Structure

1. Code 11000: Covers debridement of extensive eczematous or infected skin up to 10% of BSA (primary procedure)
2. Code 11001: Covers each additional 10% BSA (or part thereof) beyond the initial 10%

Example of Proper Use

• For debridement of 25% BSA:
  • Report 11000 × 1 (for the first 10% BSA)
  • Report 11001 × 2 (for the additional 15% BSA)

Clinical Context

When documenting for this code, it's important to clearly specify:

• The percentage of BSA involved
• The nature of the skin condition (eczematous or infected)
• The specific body areas debrided
• The method of debridement used

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Using 11001 without the primary code 11000
• Failing to document the percentage of BSA involved
• Not specifying that the debridement was for eczematous or infected skin
• Confusing this code with other debridement codes (e.g., 97597-97598 for wound debridement)
• Reporting multiple units of 11000 instead of using 11000 once and 11001 for additional areas

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include:

• Clear indication of the extent of BSA involved (using tools like the "rule of nines" or Lund-Browder chart) 1
• Description of the skin condition requiring debridement
• Detailed description of the debridement procedure performed
• Medical necessity for the procedure

This code is specifically for the debridement of extensive skin conditions and is reported based on the percentage of body surface area treated beyond the initial 10%.