In simple words: The doctor places a special type of mesh that dissolves over time into an open wound in the groin area, near the anus, or the abdomen. This helps the wound close gradually after being left open for a while to heal properly.

This CPT code describes the implantation of absorbable mesh or another prosthesis to facilitate the delayed closure of one or more defects in the external genitalia, perineum (area between the anus and the scrotum or vulva), and/or abdominal wall.The soft tissue defect is typically the result of infection or trauma. The procedure is a delayed closure, meaning the wound was left open for a period to allow for cleaning, debridement, and infection control before the implantation of the mesh or prosthesis.

Example 1: A patient presents with a large, infected perineal wound following a traumatic injury. After appropriate debridement and infection control, the surgeon implants an absorbable mesh to facilitate delayed closure., A patient undergoes surgery for Fournier's gangrene and requires delayed closure of the resultant defect in the external genitalia.An absorbable mesh is implanted for this purpose after the initial debridement., A patient has a complex abdominal wall defect due to an infected surgical incision. Following initial wound management to control the infection, the surgeon uses code 15778 to describe the implantation of absorbable mesh to promote delayed closure.

Detailed operative report specifying the type of mesh or prosthesis used, location and size of the defect(s), any debridement or infection control measures performed prior to mesh implantation, and the surgeon's assessment of the wound's status at the time of implantation.Pre-operative and post-operative images are also helpful.

** Always refer to the most current CPT manual and payer guidelines for accurate coding and reimbursement.Remember that this code is specifically for delayed wound closure.