15738 Muscle-skin graft leg
Also known as: muscle-skin graft leg, leg musculocutaneous
Muscle-skin composite graft applied to leg defects. Combined muscular and cutaneous tissue for lower extremity reconstruction.
In Plain Language
muscle and skin transplant to leg; composite leg tissue graft
Clinical Context
Used for extensive leg injuries, chronic ulcers, and defects requiring muscle flap coverage and vascularization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.56 |
| Total RVU | 18.56 |
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 18.56, this code ranks in the 80th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 15738?
CPT 15738 (Muscle-skin graft leg) is a Surgery code. Muscle-skin composite graft applied to leg defects. Combined muscular and cutaneous tissue for lower extremity reconstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 15738?
The work RVU for CPT 15738 is 18.56. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Vascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 15738 used?
Used for extensive leg injuries, chronic ulcers, and defects requiring muscle flap coverage and vascularization.
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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.