In simple words: This code is used when a doctor removes more than one nail, either partially or completely, in a simple procedure. It's an add-on code, meaning it's used along with the code for removing the first nail. It covers separating the additional nail(s) from the nail bed, stopping any bleeding, and simple fixes to the skin around the nail. If a more complex repair is needed, a separate code is used for that. This code doesn't include permanently removing the nail so it won't grow back.

This code describes the simple, partial, or complete avulsion (tearing away) of each additional nail plate after the first one. It is used when multiple nail plates are removed during the same procedure. The procedure typically involves separating the nail plate from the nail bed using instruments like a nail elevator or iris scissors, controlling bleeding with electrocautery, and performing simple wound repair if necessary. More complex wound reconstruction, such as with local flaps, can be reported separately. This code must be used in conjunction with 11730 (for the first nail plate avulsed). Modifiers may be added to specify the location (toe or finger). It is important to compare this code to others related to nail procedures (e.g., 11750, 11765) to ensure correct coding based on what was performed.

Example 1: A patient presents with two ingrown toenails on the same foot requiring simple avulsion. 11730 would be reported for the first nail, and 11732 for the second nail, along with the appropriate modifiers to specify which toes were treated., A patient has a fungal infection affecting three nails on one hand. If the physician performs a simple avulsion on all three affected nails, 11730 would be billed for the first nail, and 11732 would be billed twice for the two additional nails. Modifiers would be used to specify which fingernails were involved., A patient sustains an injury resulting in damage to two adjacent nails on one foot. If the physician performs a simple avulsion of the damaged nail plates without any other significant repair, 11730 and 11732 would be reported, along with the appropriate toe modifiers.

Documentation should clearly describe the condition of each nail, the procedure performed, including whether it was a partial or complete avulsion, the method used, any bleeding control measures (e.g., electrocautery), and any simple repair work done. The location (toe or finger) of the affected nails must be specified. Any related conditions or procedures performed at the same time should also be documented, ensuring the documentation supports medical necessity.