11451 excision skn hdrdnt ax complex
Also known as: axillary excision complex, hidradenitis excision
Excision of skin lesion involving hidden skin fold area such as axilla with complex closure. Includes advanced wound repair and reconstruction.
In Plain Language
armpit lesion removal with advanced closure; complex axilla surgery
Clinical Context
Used for removal of skin abnormalities in axilla requiring advanced closure techniques due to location or tissue complexity.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.32 |
| Total RVU | 4.32 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 4.32, this code ranks in the 29th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 11451?
CPT 11451 (excision skn hdrdnt ax complex) is a Surgery code. Excision of skin lesion involving hidden skin fold area such as axilla with complex closure. Includes advanced wound repair and reconstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 11451?
The work RVU for CPT 11451 is 4.32. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, General Surgery, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 11451 used?
Used for removal of skin abnormalities in axilla requiring advanced closure techniques due to location or tissue complexity.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.