Commonly Used Procedure Codes

Below are some of the most common types of procedures performed by our providers, along with the most frequently billed procedure codes and their descriptions. On the billing statements you receive from Riverchase Dermatology, you will only see the description of service and not the procedure codes, but your insurance company may reference them. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your statement, please contact our Patient Accounts team at 1-800-591-3376 and select option 2.

Biopsies

A skin biopsy removes cells or skin samples from the surface of the body. The sample taken from a skin biopsy is examined to provide information about your medical condition. A doctor uses a skin biopsy to diagnose or rule out certain skin conditions and diseases.

Destruction of Lesions

Destruction of lesions is the ablation of benign, premalignant, or malignant tissues by any method of destruction (electrosurgery, cryosurgery, laser, or chemical treatment). If multiple lesions are removed, multiple procedure codes may be used.

Mohs Surgery

Mohs micrographic surgery is a technique for the removal of skin cancer. It is usually done in stages. The surgery involves the removal of tumor tissue, then maps and divides the tumor specimen into pieces for pathologic examination to determine the depth and extent of the cancer.

Excisions

Excision of lesions involves the surgical removal of the lesion, along with some of the tissue surrounding the lesion.

Repairs

Repairs, or wound closures, are classified as simple, intermediate, or complex depending on the severity of the wound or opening. Repair is generally performed utilizing sutures, staples, and/or tissue adhesives.

Pathology

Dermapathologists study skin and tissue at the microscopic cellular level. They utilize specialized laboratory equipment and tests to diagnose and manage various skin conditions.

Evaluation and Management

Evaluation and management codes are divided into broad categories such as office visits, hospital visits, and consultations. They are further divided by levels of service, ranging from 1 to 5. These codes may be billed in conjunction with other procedures performed during your visit.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy uses UV light to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, pruritis, and vitiligo. It is administered in a variety of different ways, including full length body lamps, small light boxes, and hand-held devices.

Laser Treatment

Laser therapy treats a variety of skin conditions and can be used for cosmetic purposes as well. Laser treatment is administered by a variety of different means using different wavelengths of lasers to target certain skin cells.

Radiation Oncology

Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses radiation energy to kill cancer cells. The beam aims directly at the cancer while protecting healthy tissue.

Vein Treatment