AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) — Question 65

A 35-year-old female has cancer in her left breast. The surgeon performs a mastectomy, removing the breast tissue, skin, pectoral muscles, and surrounding tissue, including the axillary and internal mammary lymph nodes.
Which mastectomy code is reported?

Answer options

• A. 19303
• B. 19305
• C. 19306
• D. 19307

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct code is 19306, which represents a total mastectomy that includes the removal of the breast tissue, skin, pectoral muscles, and lymph nodes as described. Options A, B, and D do not encompass the full extent of the procedure performed, which is why they are not the correct choice.