How to Bill CPT Code 11730 for Toenail Removal – A Complete 2025 Guide

Toenail issues like ingrown nails are incredibly common in outpatient care, especially in podiatry and primary care. When conservative treatments fail, partial nail removal, known as nail avulsion, is often the next step. That’s where the 11730 CPT code comes in.

At Express Medical Billing Services, we’ve worked with countless providers across podiatry, dermatology, and family medicine. One of the most frequent questions we receive is: “How do I properly bill for nail avulsion using CPT code 11730?” Let’s break with real experience and supported insights.

What Is CPT Code 11730?

CPT Code 11730 is defined as:
“Avulsion of nail plate, partial or complete, simple; single nail.”

In plain terms, this code applies when a provider removes part or all of a toenail or fingernail, often due to ingrown toenails (onychogryphosis), trauma, or infection. Importantly, 11730 only covers nail plate removal without destruction of the nail matrix. If the matrix is destroyed, CPT Code 11750 should be used instead.

11730 CPT Code Description & Billing Tips

When billing the 11730 CPT code, documentation must clearly support:

Reason for the procedure (e.g., ingrown toenail, infection, trauma).
Specific nail treated (left/right, toe/finger).
Confirmation that no chemical or surgical matrixectomy was performed.
Associated ICD-10 codes like L60.0 (in growing nail).

11730 vs 11750 CPT Code - What’s the Difference?

CPT Code	Description	When to Use
11730	Nail avulsion (simple removal, partial or complete)	No matrix destruction
11750	Excision of nail & matrix (permanent)	With chemical/surgical matrixectomy

Many denials happen when coders confuse 11730 vs 11750. Always verify if the matrix was treated in the op note.

Does CPT Code 11730 Require a Modifier?

Yes. Modifiers are critical to avoid claim denials:

Modifier 59 → When billed with another distinct procedure (e.g., biopsy).
RT / LT → To indicate laterality (right/left toe).
Modifier 50 → Bilateral procedure, if applicable.
Modifier 79 → When done during a post-op period for an unrelated service.

CPT 11730 Global Period

CPT Code 11730 carries a 10-day global period.

This means:

All routine post-op visits within 10 days are bundled.
Do not bill separately for follow-ups unless unrelated.
Use Modifier 24 if new/unrelated E/M occurs in that period.

Related CPT and ICD-10 Codes for Nail Procedures

11732 → Avulsion of additional nail(s), reported with 11730.
11750 → Nail excision with matrix removal.
11055–11057 → Corn/callus debridement.
G0127 → Routine nail trimming for Medicare.
L60.0 → Ingrowing nail ICD-10 code.

11730 CPT Code Reimbursement (2025 Update)

For 2025, Medicare reimbursement for CPT 11730 averages:

$38–$45 (office setting, national)
Varies by MAC region and facility vs. office setting.

Pro tip: Always confirm updated rates via CMS Physician Fee Schedule Lookup Tool or your MAC portal.

Common Denials with CPT Code 11730

At Express Medical Billing Services, we often see claims denied due to:

Using 11730 when 11750 was correct.
Missing modifiers when performed with other procedures.
Incorrect ICD-10 linkage (e.g., L60.0).
Overlooking the global period rules.

Why Work With Express Medical Billing Services?

Billing for procedures like nail avulsions (CPT Code 11730) may seem simple, but denials happen frequently due to documentation gaps, modifier errors, or confusion with 11750. At Express Medical Billing Services, our team ensures:

Correct CPT/ICD code usage.
Proper modifier application.
Denial management and appeals.
Faster reimbursements for podiatry, dermatology, and family medicine providers.

Partner with Express Medical Billing to avoid costly errors and maximize reimbursement. See the sights our Physician Billing Services and see how we help you get paid faster, and more accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the ICD-10 code for toenail removal (11730)?

Most common is L60.0 (In growing nail). Use others as clinically appropriate.

This code is for a simple, single nail removal, not multiple nails or complex cases.

When is nail avulsion (11730) considered medically necessary?

Nail removal under CPT 11730 is medically necessary when a patient has infection, severe ingrown nails, hematomas under the nail, or chronic fungal infections that cause discomfort or impair walking. It’s regularly achieved in-office using a local anesthetic. The provider must document the condition clearly to justify billing for this procedure.

Does CPT 11730 require a modifier?

Yes, depending on scenario (59, RT/LT, 50, 79).

What’s the difference between CPT 11730 and 11750?

11730 = simple nail avulsion; 11750 = excision with matrixectomy.

What is the global period for CPT 11730?

10 days. Post-op visits in this period are bundled.

Can you bill CPT 11730 with 11732?

Yes, use 11732 for each additional nail avulsed.