JUN 12, 2023
Removal of Sutures or Staples Not Requiring Anesthesia
As of Jan. 1, 2023, we found a new CPT code for removing sutures or staples not requiring anesthesia (+ 15823). During a patient's glaucoma exam, the physician removes a loose suture from their eyelid. Would it be appropriate to bill the evaluation and management (E/M) code and 15853?
Answer:CPT 15853 is an add-on code; you are correct that it can be billed with an appropriate E/M code. If the visit is not billable with E/M (e.g., considered part of post-operative care) then 15853 is not separately billable.
If your physician is covering the post-operative period for a surgeon in your practice this would be considered post-operative care.