CPT Code 12001: Simple Repair of Superficial Wounds (2.5 cm or less)

What is CPT code 12001?

CPT code 12001 describes a simple repair of superficial wounds measuring 2.5 cm or less, involving only the epidermis or dermis without significant tissue loss. This wound repair procedure includes closure using sutures, tissue adhesives, or adhesive strips, and applies to wounds on areas such as the scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk, and extremities.

As one of the simple laceration repair codes, it is appropriate when a single-layer closure is sufficient and no extensive debridement or complex repair is needed. Accurate coding depends on anatomic location, repair lengths, and whether multiple procedures were performed in the same session.

Documentation requirements

Accurate documentation for CPT code 12001 is essential to support medical necessity and ensure proper reimbursement for the simple repair of superficial wounds. Healthcare providers should include:

• Wound size, anatomic location, and depth: Include measurements in centimeters and specify if the wound involves areas like the scalp, neck, axillae, external genitalia, trunk, or extremities.
• Method of closure: Note whether sutures, adhesive strips, or tissue adhesives were used to complete the wound closure procedure.
• Anesthesia used: Indicate any local anesthesia or none, especially in multiple procedures or sensitive regions like external genitalia.
• Number of wounds: When billing multiple repairs, document the total repair lengths per anatomic location to comply with wound repair coding guidelines.
• Technique and cleansing: Describe the wound cleansing, repair technique, and whether it was a single-layer closure typical of a simple repair rather than an intermediate or complex repair.

Proper documentation supports accurate coding, minimizes denials, and aligns with laceration repair codes as outlined by the American Medical Association.

Billing guidelines

When reporting CPT code 12001, bill per repaired wound, grouping lacerations by anatomic region (e.g., trunk and/or extremities) and combining only repair lengths within the same area. Simple repair codes should not be billed alongside intermediate repair (12031–12057) or complex repair codes (13100–13153) for the same repair site, as each represents a different repair complexity.

Extensive debridement may be billed separately if performed and properly documented as a separate procedure. Otherwise, routine cleaning is bundled into the initial laceration repair code. When multiple simple repairs are performed on the same day, ensure they are appropriately grouped and calculated to support accurate billing.

Avoid coding errors by distinguishing between simple, intermediate, and complex repair—a simple wound repair code involves single-layer closure and excludes subcutaneous tissue, unlike intermediate wound repair codes which address deeper structures.

Always consult laceration repair CPT codes and wound repair codes to ensure compliance with revenue cycle management best practices.