Coding 19120 vs 19301

Question:

What’s the difference between code 19120, breast mass excision and 19301, partial mastectomy/lumpectomy?

Answer:

Both codes describe the excision of a lesion in the breast.  Code 19120 is describes the excision or open removal of a cyst, fibroadenoma, or other benign or malignant tumor, aberrant breast tissue, duct lesion, nipple or areolar lesion.

In contrast, code 19301 also describes removal of a lesion by performing a partial mastectomy, for example a lumpectomy, tylectomy, quadrantectomy, or segmentectomy.However, this code requires the necessity and documentation of attention to the removal of adequate surgical margins surrounding the breast mass or lesion.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 05/03/18.