17260 destruction mal lesion t/a/l 0.5 centimeters/<
Also known as: destroy malignant small, skin cancer small destruction
Destruction of malignant skin lesion (trunk, arms, legs) with largest diameter 0.5 centimeter or less using various modalities.
In Plain Language
Treatment of small skin cancer; Removal of tiny melanoma or carcinoma
Clinical Context
Used for small malignant lesions on body including trunk, arms, and legs. Appropriate for small, superficial malignancies.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.94 |
| Total RVU | 0.94 |
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 0.94, this code ranks in the 4th percentile among Surgery codes — 8.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 17260?
CPT 17260 (destruction mal lesion t/a/l 0.5 centimeters/<) is a Surgery code. Destruction of malignant skin lesion (trunk, arms, legs) with largest diameter 0.5 centimeter or less using various modalities.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 17260?
The work RVU for CPT 17260 is 0.94. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, Surgical Oncology, Plastic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 17260 used?
Used for small malignant lesions on body including trunk, arms, and legs. Appropriate for small, superficial malignancies.
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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.