CPT code 11301 covers the shave removal of a single epidermal or dermal skin lesion 0.6–1.0 cm in diameter from the trunk, arms, or legs. This minor dermatologic surgical code is commonly used in outpatient and ambulatory dermatology settings for removal of lesions for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. Nationally, accurate use of 11301 matters for clinical documentation, coding consistency, and appropriate claims processing for skin procedures.

Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an explanation of the clinical context for the service, comparisons of coding practice and reimbursement benchmarks across major payers, and notes on documentation elements that typically support medical necessity for minor dermatologic procedures. The analysis highlights expected settings of care, common clinical indications, and how 11301 fits within the spectrum of skin lesion excision codes.

The publication provides concise benchmarks, coding considerations, and policy updates affecting billing for minor skin surgery to inform clinicians, billing professionals, and policy analysts working at a national level.