11102 Tangntl biopsy skin single lesion
Also known as: shave biopsy, tangential biopsy, tangential biopsy skin, tangential skin biopsy
Tangential biopsy of skin from a single lesion using a horizontal shaving technique. This procedure removes a thin superficial sample for pathological examination without going into deeper dermis.
In Plain Language
skin scraping biopsy; surface skin sample
Clinical Context
Used to diagnose or evaluate suspicious skin lesions when superficial sampling is adequate. Commonly performed for evaluation of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.64 |
| Total RVU | 0.64 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.64, this code ranks in the 2nd percentile among Surgery codes — 12.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 11102?
CPT 11102 (Tangntl biopsy skin single lesion) is a Surgery code. Tangential biopsy of skin from a single lesion using a horizontal shaving technique. This procedure removes a thin superficial sample for pathological examination without going into deeper dermis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 11102?
The work RVU for CPT 11102 is 0.64. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, Pathology, Surgery.
When is CPT 11102 used?
Used to diagnose or evaluate suspicious skin lesions when superficial sampling is adequate. Commonly performed for evaluation of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.