15271 Skin sub graft trnk/arm/leg
Also known as: skin substitute graft, bioengineered skin
Skin substitute graft applied to trunk, arms, or legs, first application. Bioengineered or acellular skin substitute for wound coverage.
In Plain Language
artificial or lab-made skin covering; skin substitute transplant
Clinical Context
Used for burns, traumatic wounds, and surgical defects when autologous graft is unavailable or insufficient. Reduces infection and promotes healing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.46 |
| Total RVU | 1.46 |
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 1.46, this code ranks in the 9th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 15271?
CPT 15271 (Skin sub graft trnk/arm/leg) is a Surgery code. Skin substitute graft applied to trunk, arms, or legs, first application. Bioengineered or acellular skin substitute for wound coverage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 15271?
The work RVU for CPT 15271 is 1.46. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Burn Surgery, Wound Care.
When is CPT 15271 used?
Used for burns, traumatic wounds, and surgical defects when autologous graft is unavailable or insufficient. Reduces infection and promotes healing.
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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.