February 16, 2017

Question:
How do I code a malignant lesion 1.5 cm on the nose and a 1.5cm malignant lesion on the chest measuring 2.1cm? Do I need a modifier?

Answer:
You would report 11642 for the 1.5 cm malignant lesion on the nose and 11603 for the 2.1 cm excision of the chest. You will need to append Modifier 51 to CPT 11642 which is the lower valued procedure (RVU). Do not use Modifier 59 (modifier of last resort) as these two codes are not bundled under the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI).

*This response is based on the best information available as of 02/16/17.