Dstr mal ls f/e/e/n/l/m2.1-3
CPT 17283 covers the destruction of malignant (cancerous) skin lesions on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes that measure between 2.1 and 3.0 centimeters in diameter. This typically involves removing skin cancer using methods like cryotherapy, electrosurgery, laser, or chemical treatments.
This calculator gives a typical-case estimate using standard Medicare modifier rules. Actual payment depends on payer policies, documentation, code-specific CMS status indicators, and locality. Verify before billing.
RVU breakdown
Conversion factor: 32.3465 · Source: CMS MPFS RVU25A · Confidence: High
NCCI bundling edits
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Billing tips
Always document lesion diameter at its greatest width before any destruction or anesthesia injection, as tissue distortion can alter measurements
Impact: Prevents downcoding from 17283 to 17282 which reduces reimbursement by approximately $40-50
Bill in non-facility setting when possible; the differential is $70.52 per lesion ($236.78 vs $166.26)
Impact: Office-based procedures generate 42% higher reimbursement than facility settings
Document pathology confirmation of malignancy prior to destruction; keep biopsy report in chart
Impact: Prevents medical necessity denials that could cost entire $236.78 payment; critical for audit defense
For multiple lesions, code each separately and use modifier 59 or XS on subsequent lesions to prevent bundling
Impact: Protects full reimbursement per lesion; without modifier, second lesion may be denied entirely
Use specific ICD-10 codes indicating malignancy site and histology (C44.x codes), not unspecified or benign diagnoses
Impact: Prevents denials for medical necessity; wrong diagnosis code results in 100% denial
Bill same-day visit with modifier 25 only if documented as separate evaluation beyond the decision for destruction
Impact: Legitimate modifier 25 use adds $75-200 depending on E/M level, but improper use triggers audits
Applicable modifiers
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