11601 excision tr-ext mal+marg 0.6-1 centimeters
Also known as: malignant excision, skin cancer removal, excision malignant lesion 0.6-1cm, skin cancer excision small
Excision of malignant skin lesion on trunk or extremity with margins of 0.6 to 1 centimeter. Includes closure of the excision site.
In Plain Language
cancer removal; skin cancer surgery
Clinical Context
Used for removal of melanoma or malignant skin cancers on trunk and extremities with moderate margins.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.02 |
| Total RVU | 2.02 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.02, this code ranks in the 14th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 11601?
CPT 11601 (excision tr-ext mal+marg 0.6-1 centimeters) is a Surgery code. Excision of malignant skin lesion on trunk or extremity with margins of 0.6 to 1 centimeter. Includes closure of the excision site.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 11601?
The work RVU for CPT 11601 is 2.02. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, Dermatologic Surgery, Oncology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 11601 used?
Used for removal of melanoma or malignant skin cancers on trunk and extremities with moderate margins.
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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.