Procedure Coding

Question:

What is the difference between a biopsy and removal when it comes to dermatology.

Answer:

A biopsy is a sample of a suspicious lesion on the body and the tissue is sent to a laboratory for testing. Where shave excisions are removals of lesions without taking the full thickness of the skin. These codes include local anesthesia. The wounds do not require suture closure.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 12/28/23.