Question

question 14

what is the code for gross and microscopic examination (surgical pathology) of breast tissue from a simple mastectomy?

88305
88307
88300
88309

Explanation:

Identify the surgical pathology level for breast tissue from a simple mastectomy

Under CPT guidelines for surgical pathology (codes 88300–88309), specimens are categorized into Levels I through VI based on the complexity of the gross and microscopic examination.

• Breast, biopsy/lumpectomy/partial mastectomy is classified under Level IV (CPT 88305).
• Breast, mastectomy - partial/simple is classified under Level V (CPT 88307).
• Breast, mastectomy - with regional lymph nodes is classified under Level VI (CPT 88309).

Match the specimen to the correct CPT code

The question asks for the code for a "simple mastectomy."

• Simple mastectomy corresponds to "Breast, mastectomy - partial/simple," which is assigned to Level V.
• The CPT code for Level V surgical pathology is 88307.

Answer:

• 88305
• 88307 (Correct answer)
• 88300
• 88309