2025 HCPCS code G0168
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Procedure - Wound Closure Miscellaneous Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services Feed
Wound closure using only tissue adhesive.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances. Consult local coding guidelines and payer instructions.
Medical necessity for G0168 is established when the wound characteristics (size, location, cleanliness, depth) and patient factors make tissue adhesive alone an appropriate and safe closure method.This requires clinical judgment by the provider.
The provider is responsible for assessing the wound, determining suitability for tissue adhesive closure, applying the adhesive properly, and ensuring proper wound healing. This includes appropriate patient education and follow-up.
- Miscellaneous Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services
- G0008-G9987 > Miscellaneous Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services
In simple words: This code is for closing a wound using special glue instead of stitches or staples. The glue seals the wound, helps prevent infection, and lets it heal naturally.
This HCPCS code reports wound closure using tissue adhesive materials only, without sutures or staples.The provider applies a tissue adhesive, such as cyanoacrylate, to bond the wound edges. This method protects the wound site, inhibits bacterial growth, and promotes healing with minimal patient discomfort.It's used for both inpatient and outpatient Medicare services.
Example 1: A patient presents with a small, clean laceration on their arm. The physician determines that tissue adhesive is sufficient for closure and applies it without sutures or staples. Code G0168 is reported., A patient presents with a superficial wound after a minor accident. After cleaning, the provider assesses the wound and decides to use tissue adhesive for closure. G0168 is reported for this outpatient visit., A patient sustains a minor surgical incision during an inpatient procedure. The surgeon uses tissue adhesive only to close the incision and reports G0168 to Medicare.
* Thorough description of the wound.* Documentation of the decision to use tissue adhesive alone.* Note of the type and amount of adhesive used.* Documentation of the wound closure technique.* Appropriate patient education on wound care.* Follow-up care plan.
** Always confirm payer-specific coverage and coding policies before billing.Consider the size and complexity of the wound when choosing the appropriate code.This code is primarily for Medicare; other payers may utilize CPT codes for wound closure instead.
- Payment Status: Active for Medicare; Check with other payers.
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, General Surgery, Plastic Surgery
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Urgent Care Facility