15040 Harvest cultured skin graft
Also known as: cultured skin harvest, CEA harvest
Harvest of cultured epidermal autografts including donor tissue collection, culture expansion, and preparation of cells for transplantation. Includes all processing and preparation work.
In Plain Language
harvesting and preparing cultured skin cells; collecting and growing patient's skin cells
Clinical Context
Used for severe and extensive burns requiring rapid coverage with patient's own cultured skin cells. Reduces morbidity compared to traditional grafts.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.95 |
| Total RVU | 1.95 |
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 1.95, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 15040?
CPT 15040 (Harvest cultured skin graft) is a Surgery code. Harvest of cultured epidermal autografts including donor tissue collection, culture expansion, and preparation of cells for transplantation. Includes all processing and preparation work.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 15040?
The work RVU for CPT 15040 is 1.95. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Burn Surgery, Tissue Engineering.
When is CPT 15040 used?
Used for severe and extensive burns requiring rapid coverage with patient's own cultured skin cells. Reduces morbidity compared to traditional grafts.
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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.