97597 CPT Code: Wound Debridement Made Simple

If you’re in healthcare or any other health field, you must have heard the 97597 CPT code at some point. Whether you’re a doctor, a medical office manager, or handling billing in a clinic, understanding this code is very important. Especially when it comes to payment and compliance, let’s break it all down together, nice and easy.

If you're handling wound care billing or documentation, understanding specific procedure codes is key. For example, CPT code 97597 plays a critical role in selective wound debridement and knowing when and how to use it can significantly impact reimbursement and compliance.

This article will provide you with all the information about the 97597 CPT code and all the information relevant to it.

So, What Is the 97597 CPT Code?

The 97597 CPT code is used in in the process of healing wounds so that they could heal properly. This code is mainly used for removing dead tissue that slows down healing process. In this process scissors, scalpel and forceps are used. Sometimes high-pressure water jets are also used to clean the wound.

This code is meant for smaller wounds—20 sq cm or under. If it's larger than that? You’ll probably need to pair it with code 97598 for the additional area.

What the 97597 Code Covers and When It Applies

Here's the official 97597 CPT code description:

This code helps with cleaning wounds by removing tissue that’s no longer alive. Different techniques are used to perform this task, for example, high-pressure water jets (with or without suction). Sharp tools like scissors, scalpels, and forceps are also used in this process. The goal is to clean the wound by removing harmful substances like dead tissue, fibrin, or biofilm that could slow the healing process. The procedure also includes applying topical treatments and evaluating the wound's condition. It also includes providing instructions for ongoing care. CPT 97597 is for smaller wounds. If the wound is bigger than 20 sq cm, you’ll need CPT 97598 to cover the rest.

Whew, that was a mouthful, right? Let's simplify: it covers debridement, topical applications, assessment, and instructions per session for smaller wounds. It focuses on selective debridement, meaning it targets only nonviable tissue and leaves the healthy parts alone.

How Do You Know If 97597 Is the Right Code?

Great question. You use this code when:

·       The debridement is selective, not surgical or enzymatic.

·       Tools like scissors, a scalpel, or forceps are used.

·       You’re doing wound assessment and giving care instructions.

·       This is for smaller wounds, up to 20 square centimeters in size.

So yeah, if you’re treating a wound and carefully removing the bad stuff to help it heal, this is your go-to code.

What About Documentation Requirements?

Ah, yes. The not-so-glamorous side of coding: paperwork.

Accurate paperwork is a must for CPT code 97597. It should clearly include:

●      Size and depth of the wound.

●      Tools used for debridement (e.g., scissors, scalpel).

●      Tissue removed (describe it, like slough, necrosis, biofilm).

●      Wound’s surface area before and after.

●      Application’s wound assessment (color, exudate, etc.).

●      Medical necessity for debridement.

●      Give step-by-step guidance to the patient or their caregiver.

Proper documentation isn’t just for compliance. It’s your best shot at smooth 97597 CPT code reimbursement.

Reimbursement: What Can You Expect?

Speaking of money, let’s talk about what you might get back.

If you're unsure, the CPT code 97597 definition basically refers to selective wound debridement without anesthesia. Medicare reimbursement for CPT code 97597 varies depending on your locality and whether the service is provided in a facility or non-facility setting. The common rate lies about $40-$60 per session. Not huge, but it adds up—especially in wound clinics or home health settings.

Make sure you’re also coding any additional wound areas correctly with 97598, and be super thorough with your documentation to avoid denials.

A Quick Look at Other Debridement Techniques

Sometimes people confuse 97597 with other codes, especially:

●      11042-11047 (surgical debridement)

●      97598 (each additional 20 sq cm)

●      97602 (non-selective debridement)

If you're using enzymes or whirlpool baths, you're looking at 97602. If you’re diving into subcutaneous tissue or deeper, surgical codes come into play. But for selective debridement with scissors or a scalpel, code 97597 is your star player.

Real-World Example: Coding for Wound Correctly

Let’s say a patient comes in with a 15 sq cm leg ulcer. Using forceps and a scalpel, you carefully take away the unhealthy tissue. You clean the wound, apply a dressing, assess the wound for depth and signs of infection, and educate the patient on home care.

That right there? Classic 97597 CPT code.

Add another 25 sq cm wound treated in the same visit? You’ll add 97598 for the extra area.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

●      Under-documenting the procedure.

●      Skipping the wound’s measurements

●      Not specifying the debridement tools.

●      Using the code for non-selective debridement.

●      Missing the session total wound size (especially when multiple wounds are involved).

Let’s Talk Medical Necessity

Payers want proof that the procedure was needed. That’s where medical necessity comes in. Just saying "we cleaned the wound" won’t cut it.

You have to show that the wound wasn’t healing, or that debridement was essential to reduce infection risk or stimulate tissue growth. Make your case with notes that clearly spell it out. Be sure to outline the care per session total so the payer sees exactly what was done during each visit.

What About the Human Side of Wound Care?

Here is something no one talks about: wound debridement isn’t just clinical—it’s personal. Every wound tells a story, whether it’s a diabetic foot ulcer or a pressure sore from being bedridden. When you’re using the 97597 CPT code, you’re not just removing dead tissue. You’re helping someone regain comfort, mobility, and sometimes even dignity.

It’s easy to get caught up in codes and compliance, but behind every number is a person who’s probably hoping this visit makes a difference. Even with all the paperwork, we can't forget how important that is.

Conclusion

It may just look like five digits, but the 97597 CPT code carries a lot of weight. It reflects a critical step in wound healing, one that requires skill, documentation, and proper coding. If you get it right, you’re helping your patient heal and keeping your clinic’s revenue flowing. Get it wrong, and you're looking at delays, denials, and rework. Nobody wants that.

Whether you're in the room with a scalpel, behind a desk handling claims, or managing EHR templates, understanding how code 97597 fits into the broader world of wound care and billing can save you time, stress, and even a few bucks.

And hey, that’s worth knowing, isn’t it?