Repair, intermediate, wounds of scalp, axillae, trunk and/or extremities (excluding hands and feet); 12.6 cm to 20.0 cm
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Intermediate Repair of Wounds (Scalp, Axillae, Trunk, and Extremities); 12.6 cm to 20.0 cm
Common name(s): Intermediate wound repair
Summary
This procedure involves the intermediate repair of wounds measuring between 12.6 cm and 20.0 cm located on the scalp, underarms (axillae), trunk (chest and abdomen), and/or extremities (arms and legs), excluding hands and feet.
Purpose
Medical Condition: Treatment for medium-sized wounds.
Goals: To close and heal wounds more effectively than simple repairs, preventing infection and minimizing scarring.
Indications
Symptoms/Conditions:
- Lacerations or cuts requiring more than simple suturing
- Deep or wide wounds that need layered closure
Patient Criteria: - Patients with wounds between 12.6 cm and 20.0 cm in length
- Suitable for patients without underlying conditions that might complicate wound healing
Preparation
Pre-Procedure Instructions:
- May be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure
- Stopping certain medications that could affect bleeding or healing (as advised by a doctor)
Diagnostic Tests: - Physical examination to assess the wound
- Blood tests or imaging if necessary
Procedure Description
Steps:
- Cleaning: The wound is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area.
- Debridement: Any dead tissue is removed if necessary.
- Layered Closure: Sutures are used to close the wound in layers, starting with the deeper tissues and ending with the skin.
- Dressing: A sterile dressing is applied to protect the wound.
Tools/Equipment: Sutures, needles, wound cleaning supplies.
Anesthesia: Usually local anesthesia; sedation may be used in some cases.
Duration
Typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity and size of the wound.
Setting
Performed in an outpatient clinic, a hospital, or a surgical center.
Personnel
Involves surgeons, surgical nurses, and possibly anesthesiologists.
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Infection
- Pain at the site of repair
- Bleeding
Rare Risks: - Excessive scarring
- Poor wound healing
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
Management: Any complications are managed promptly with appropriate medical interventions.
Benefits
Expected Benefits:
- Faster wound healing
- Reduced risk of infection
- Minimized scarring
Timeline: Benefits are usually realized within a few weeks as the wound heals.
Recovery
Post-Procedure Care:
- Keep the wound clean and dry
- Follow-up visits to check wound healing and remove sutures
Recovery Time: Typically 2-4 weeks, depending on the wound’s location and patient’s overall health
Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activity or stretching the wound area during healing.
Alternatives
Other Options:
- Simple wound repair
- Advanced wound care techniques (e.g., skin grafts)
Pros and Cons: - Simple repair is less invasive but might not be adequate for deeper wounds
- Advanced techniques may provide better outcomes but are more complex and expensive
Patient Experience
During the Procedure:
- Mostly painless due to anesthesia, with possibly minimal discomfort
After the Procedure: - Some pain and swelling expected, managed with prescribed pain medications
- Instructions on wound care to ensure a smooth recovery.
By following these guidelines, the intermediate wound repair can effectively help heal medium-sized wounds and promote better recovery outcomes.