Ask Dr. Z

During EOL generator change, a pocket revision procedure is noted in the operative report to reduce perioperative infection risk. Is debridement code 11042 for 14 sq cm appropriate to report? "A 10 blade was used to make an incision approximately 3 inches in length over the pre-existing scar. Blunt and sharp surgical dissection was carried down to the endothelialized capsule, which was incised. The pulse generator was removed from the capsule. Leads were removed from the head of the device. Chronic threshold testing and lead evaluation demonstrated all three leads to be adequate for utilization. A complete capsulectomy with excision of all devitalized tissue was performed at this time, with removal of approximately 14 cm tissue at this time. Hemostasis was assured with electrocoagulation. The pocket was copiously irrigated with Bacitracin solution. A new CRT-D pulse generator was brought on the field."