2025 CPT code 15574

Formation of direct or tubed pedicle flap, with or without transfer, on the forehead, cheeks, chin, mouth, neck, axillae, genitalia, hands, or feet.

If the flap is transferred during a separate operative session, use code 15650. For microvascular flaps, see codes 15756-15758. For flaps without inclusion of a vascular pedicle, see codes 15570-15576. For adjacent tissue transfer flaps, see codes 14000-14302.

Modifiers may be applicable to this code, including modifier 22 (Increased Procedural Services), modifier 59 (Distinct Procedural Service) and other modifiers depending on specific circumstances

Medical necessity for this procedure is established by the presence of a defect or wound that requires reconstruction with a pedicle flap to facilitate healing, restore function, or improve cosmetic appearance. Documentation should clearly support the medical necessity of the procedure.

The physician prepares the patient, marks the donor and recipient sites, creates the pedicle flap, and may transfer it to the recipient site during the same procedure. The procedure requires meticulous technique to preserve the blood supply to the flap.

In simple words: This procedure involves creating a flap of skin and tissue from a healthy area near the injury or wound. This flap, called a pedicle flap, remains attached to its original blood supply and is used to cover and repair the damaged area. This procedure can be used on areas like the face, neck, armpit, groin, hands, or feet.

This code describes the surgical formation of a pedicle flap, either direct or tubed, which may or may not be transferred during the same procedure. The pedicle flap involves mobilizing skin and underlying tissue to repair a defect in a nearby area while maintaining its original blood supply. This code specifically applies to procedures performed on the forehead, cheeks, chin, mouth, neck, axillae, genitalia, hands, or feet.

Example 1: A patient with a large defect on the cheek following removal of a skin cancer requires a pedicle flap from the adjacent neck to reconstruct the defect., A patient with a traumatic injury to the hand requires a tubed pedicle flap to cover exposed tendons., A patient with a burn injury to the foot requires a pedicle flap to cover and promote healing of the wound.

Documentation should include the size and location of the defect, the type of pedicle flap created (direct or tubed), the donor site, and whether the flap was transferred. Operative details, including undermining, size of the flap and method of closure should be documented.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Plastic Surgery, Reconstructive Surgery, Dermatology, Otolaryngology, Hand Surgery
  • Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Inpatient, Hospital Outpatient, Physician's Office
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