Understanding CPT Code 97597: A Comprehensive Guide

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Understanding CPT Code 97597 A Comprehensive
Guide
In the medical field, accurate and standardized
coding is essential for proper documentation,
billing, and reimbursement. One such code that
plays a crucial role in wound care management is
CPT code 97597. CPT code 97597, titled
Debridement (e.g., high-pressure water jet
with/without suction, sharp selective debridement
with scissors, scalpel and forceps), open wound,
(e.g., fibrin, devitalized epidermis and/or
dermis, exudate, debris, biofilm), including
topical application(s), wound assessment, use of
a whirlpool, when performed and instruction(s)
for ongoing care, per session, total wound(s)
surface area first 20 square cm or less, is
used to report the debridement of open
wounds. This code specifically applies to
debridement procedures performed on wounds that
measure 20 square centimeters or less. In this
blog post, we will delve into the details of CPT
code 97597, discussing its definition, usage,
documentation requirements, and associated
considerations.
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Understanding CPT Code 97597 A Comprehensive
Guide

• Proper Coding for CPT code 97597
• When coding for wound debridement using CPT code
  97597, there are a few important considerations
  to keep in mind
• Time-based coding CPT code 97597 is a time-based
  code that represents a single session of wound
  debridement. It does not account for the specific
  duration of the procedure. Providers should
  document the service time in the patients record.

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Understanding CPT Code 97597 A Comprehensive
Guide

• Wound size limitation Remember that CPT code
  97597 applies to wounds with a surface area of 20
  square centimeters or less. If the wound exceeds
  this size, a different code, such as 97598 for
  each additional 20 square centimeters, should be
  used.
• Documentation accuracy Accurate and detailed
  documentation is crucial for coding and billing
  purposes. Ensure that the documentation supports
  the medical necessity of the debridement
  procedure and justifies the use of CPT code
  97597.
• Medical necessity Debridement should be
  performed based on medical necessity. The
  documentation should include the rationale for
  debridement, such as the presence of necrosis,
  nonviable tissue, or signs of infection in the
  wound, as well as the expected benefits of
  debridement in promoting wound healing.
• The uniqueness of procedures While CPT code
  97597 covers various debridement techniques, it
  is essential to accurately describe the specific
  methods and tools used during the procedure. This
  information helps provide a clear picture of the
  services rendered and supports proper coding.
• Usage and Documentation Requirements
• CPT code 97597 is typically used for wounds that
  require active debridement. Debridement is the
  process of removing nonviable tissue, foreign
  material, or contaminants from a wound to
  facilitate proper healing.

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Understanding CPT Code 97597 A Comprehensive
Guide

• The code encompasses various methods of
  debridement, including high-pressure waterjet,
  sharp selective debridement with scissors,
  scalpel, and forceps.
• To accurately report CPT code 97597, healthcare
  providers must document the following
  information
• Wound assessment The documentation should
  include a thorough assessment of the wound,
  noting its size, location, stage, and any
  associated complications or comorbidities.
• Debridement technique Specify the debridement
  method used, such as a high-pressure water jet,
  sharp selective debridement, or a combination of
  techniques. Additionally, document the extent of
  debridement, including the types of tissue
  removed (fibrin, devitalized epidermis/dermis,
  debris, biofilm, etc.).
• Topical application If any topical agents or
  dressings are applied after debridement, detail
  the specific products used.
• Wound surface area Measure and document the
  wounds surface area, ensuring it is 20 square
  centimeters or less to align with the codes
  criteria.
• Whirlpool use and ongoing care instructions If a
  whirlpool is used during the session or if
  instructions for ongoing care are provided,
  include this information in the documentation.

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Understanding CPT Code 97597 A Comprehensive
Guide
CPT code 97597 is a valuable tool for reporting
and documenting wound debridement procedures. By
understanding the codes definition,
documentation requirements, and associated
considerations, healthcare providers can
ensure accurate coding and appropriate
reimbursement for their services. Proper
documentation, including a comprehensive wound
assessment, description of debridement
techniques, measurement of wound surface area,
and indications of medical necessity, is
essential for using CPT code 97597
effectively. Note that CPT is a registered
trademark of the American Medical Association.
The information provided in this article is for
provider educational purposes only and should not
be construed as medical advice. Healthcare
providers should consult the latest coding
guidelines and if required, should seek guidance
from coding experts for accurate coding
practices. About Medical Billers and Coders
(MBC) Medical Billers and Coders (MBC) is a
leading wound care billing company known for its
expertise and proficiency in handling the complex
billing and coding requirements of wound care
services.
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Understanding CPT Code 97597 A Comprehensive
Guide
With a team of highly skilled and certified
medical billers and coders, MBC ensures accurate
and timely submission of claims, maximizing
reimbursement for healthcare providers
specializing in wound care. By partnering
with MBC, healthcare providers can focus on
delivering exceptional wound care services while
entrusting their billing and coding processes to
a trusted industry leader. To know more about
our wound care billing services, email us
at info_at_medicalbillersandcoders.com or call us
at 888-357-3226.