2025 CPT code 16035
Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Integumentary System Feed
Escharotomy; initial incision.
Modifiers may be applicable. Modifier 22 (Increased Procedural Services) for unusually complex procedures, 50 (Bilateral Procedure) if performed on both sides of the body, 51 (Multiple Procedures) if multiple procedures are performed during the same session.
Escharotomy is medically necessary to relieve pressure from severe burns, restore blood flow, prevent tissue damage, and improve respiratory function in cases of circumferential chest burns.
The physician prepares and anesthetizes the patient, then makes the incision through the eschar to the deep fascia, exposing the fatty tissue beneath. Care is taken to avoid major nerves. Hemostasis (stopping bleeding) is ensured at the site. The physician documents the percentage of body surface involved and the depth of the burn.
In simple words: This procedure involves making an incision in the dead tissue of a severe burn to relieve pressure and restore blood flow.It's done to prevent further damage and help the burned area heal. Multiple incisions may be necessary.
Surgical incision into eschar (dead tissue) to treat severe burns. Deep burns lead to rehydration of underlying tissues and formation of eschar, a tough, inelastic mass of burnt tissue. This causes increased pressure within the cells, disintegration of vascular structure, and loss of tissue viability.The procedure involves incising the eschar down to the level of the deep fascia to expose the fatty tissue beneath. The incision is made through the burned tissue, taking care not to disturb major nerves. The underlying pressure widens the incision, restoring vascular supply and relieving constriction.
Example 1: A patient presents with a circumferential third-degree burn on the chest, restricting breathing. An escharotomy (16035) is performed to relieve the pressure., A patient has a severe burn on the leg with compromised circulation. An initial escharotomy (16035) is performed, followed by two additional incisions (+16036) to fully restore blood flow. , A patient with a third-degree burn on the arm develops compartment syndrome. An escharotomy (16035) is performed to release the pressure and prevent further tissue damage.
Percentage of body surface involved, depth of burn, location of incisions, any complications encountered.
- Revenue Code: P6A - MINOR PROCEDURES - SKIN
- Specialties:General Surgery, Burn Surgery, Critical Care
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Military Treatment Facility, Burn Center