17271 destruction mal lesion s/n/h/f/g 0.6-1
Also known as: destroy malignant 0.6-1.0 sensitive
Destruction of malignant skin lesion (scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitals) with largest diameter between 0.6 and 1.0 centimeter.
In Plain Language
Small skin cancer treatment on face, neck, or hands
Clinical Context
Used for small malignant lesions on high-visibility or functionally important areas requiring careful preservation of normal tissue.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.50 |
| Total RVU | 1.50 |
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 1.50, this code ranks in the 9th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 17271?
CPT 17271 (destruction mal lesion s/n/h/f/g 0.6-1) is a Surgery code. Destruction of malignant skin lesion (scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitals) with largest diameter between 0.6 and 1.0 centimeter.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 17271?
The work RVU for CPT 17271 is 1.50. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, Surgical Oncology, Plastic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 17271 used?
Used for small malignant lesions on high-visibility or functionally important areas requiring careful preservation of normal tissue.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.