AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) — Question 84

A 4-year-old has third-degree, circumferential burns to his torso. To avoid respiratory compression an escharotomy is performed. A total of four incisions are made through the eschar down to the subcutaneous fat to release the restrictive effects from the eschar.
What CPT® coding should you report?

Answer options

• A. 16035, 16036-51
• B. 16030
• C. 16035 x 4
• D. 16035, 16036 x 3

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is D because it accurately reflects the primary procedure code for the escharotomy (16035) and the additional incisions (16036) made to relieve pressure, with the latter performed three times. Options A and C do not account for the correct number of additional procedures, while option B does not represent the full extent of the treatment provided.