Suture Removal

Question:

I did not operate on this patient but he ended up in my office for suture removal. Isn’t there a code I can bill for removing sutures when placed by another physician?

Answer:

There is indeed a code for removal of sutures, but only if you do it in under “anesthesia other than local” (CPT 15851, Removal of sutures under anesthesia (other than local), other surgeon). If you are removing the sutures under local or no anesthesia, then the service is included in your E&M code.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 10/16/14.