09/26/2023

Correct Billing for RT & LT Wound Debridement (Total Sq Cm is 20 sq cm or less)

Provider debrided wounds,CPT 97597, on right foot and on left foot. What would be the right way to bill it? 97597 is for 20 sq cm or less. Total sq cm debrided for both wounds together is still less than 20. But each one needs separate treatment. cleansing, debriding, dressing... is one 97597 all the provider can bill and be paid for, for debridement of wounds on both feet?

Wound debridements are based on the total square area treated, not by the number of wounds. If the total area is less than 20 square centimeters, CPT 97597 can only be billed once. Billing more than one unit for any patient will cause a bundling denial by the insurance company. The same rule would apply to deeper tissue debridements.