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CPT Code 10140 – Billing Guide for Incision & Drainage
- What CPT 10140 Covers: Incision & drainage of sarcomas, hematomas, and liquefied collections (not abscesses).
- Session Duration Requirements: Not time-based.
- Who Can Use the Code: MDs, DOs, NPs, PAs, and approved facilities?
- Best Practices: Use precise documentation, apply modifiers appropriately, and understand global periods.
Get CPT codes right isn’t just a technical detail; it can make or break your reimbursement. When providers or billing teams miscode, it can lead to denials, audits, or delayed payments. One frequently misunderstood code is CPT code 10140, commonly used for incision and drainage procedures.
From proper documentation to knowing when modifiers are required, this guide will break it all down so you can bill confidently and compliantly.
What Is the CPT Code 10140?
CPT code 10140 refers to Incision and drainage of hematoma, seroma, or fluid collection. It’s often used for procedures that don’t involve complex drainage or extensive packing. This code is different from those used for abscesses (like 10060), making accuracy essential.
CPT 10140 Description
According to the CPT manual, 10140 are for a simple incision and drainage, not for abscesses that require more in-depth treatment.
Who Can Bill CPT Code 10140?
- Physicians (MD, DO)
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
- Physician Assistants (PAs)
- Outpatient facilities or hospital settings
Anyone performing the procedure in a clinical setting, and who is authorized to perform minor surgical interventions, can use this code.
Services Covered Under CPT 10140
CPT 10140 covers:
- Incision and drainage of sarcomas
- Drainage of hematomas post-surgery
- Fluid collections (non-abscess related)
It does not cover abscess-related I&Ds. For those, CPT code 10060 or 10160 might be more appropriate.
Time Requirements (If Applicable)
CPT 10140 is not time-based. Documentation should focus on the nature of the fluid collection and clinical justification rather than procedure duration.
Modifier Use with CPT 10140
So, does CPT code 10140 needs a modifier? It might. Consider these:
- Modifier -25: If used with an E/M service on the similar day
- Modifier -59: If another different procedure is done in the identical session
Continuously ensure appropriate documentation supports the use of modifiers.
Common Billing Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing CPT 10140 with abscess drainage codes like 10060 or 10160
- Skipping modifier -25 or -59 when needed
- Use it for scratch and drainage of abscess (should use correct abscess code)
- Poor documentation: No clear evidence of hematoma, sarcoma, or fluid collection
Reimbursement Rates for CPT Code 10140
While rates vary by payer and region, Medicare’s national average for CPT code 10140 reimbursements is approximately $150 to $200. Be sure to check your local fee schedule or the LCD for CPT code 10140 for exact details.
Global Days for CPT 10140
The global period for 10140 is 10 days. This affects how follow-up visits are billed.
Difference between CPT CODE 10140 and Related Codes
Here’s how CPT code 10140 vs 10160 and 10060 vs 10140 stack up:
- 10140: Drainage of fluid collections (non-infectious)
- 10160: Drainage of abscess (complex)
- 10060: Drainage of simple abscess (e.g., minor skin infections)
Always base code selection on the clinical documentation.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the correct use of CPT code 10140 is key to clean claims and maximum reimbursement. This code specifically addresses non-infectious fluid collections, so using it incorrectly (like for abscesses) can trigger claim denials.
Ensure your documentation supports the procedure, know your modifiers, and check the global period. Coding is never one-size-fits-all, but with a bit of knowledge, you can get it right every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
CPT code 10140 is used for the incision and drainage of a hematoma, seroma, or liquid group. It is not used for abscess drainage.
No. For abscess drainage, use CPT code 10060 (simple abscess) or 10160 (complex abscess). 10140 are strictly for non-infectious fluid collections.
The global period is 10 days, meaning related follow-ups during this time are typically included in the procedure’s payment.
Sometimes, Use modifier -25 if implemented with an E/M service, or modifier -59 if implemented with a distinct procedure. Always support with documentation.
Medicare reimbursement averages between $150–$200, but it varies by payer and region. Check your local fee schedule or the relevant LCD.
- 10140: Drainage of non-infectious fluid (e.g., hematoma, seroma).
- 10060: Scratch and drainage of a simple abscess (e.g., skin infection).
Yes. If image guidance is used (e.g., ultrasound), it must be documented and separately reported with the correct imaging CPT code and modifier if applicable.
It depends on the payer. Some private insurers may require prior auth, especially for outpatient hospital or ASC settings. Check payer-specific policies.
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