3 minutes
min read

52039 - Multiple Small Lesion Removal (≤ 3 cm)

MBS service description:

TUMOURS, CYSTS, ULCERS OR SCARS, (other than a scar removed during the surgical approach at an operation), up to 3 cm in diameter, removal from cutaneous or subcutaneous tissue or from mucous membrane, where the removal is by surgical excision and suture, and the procedure is performed on more than 3 but not more than 10 lesions (Anaes.) (Assist.)
Schedule Fee:
371.45
@85% Benefit Fee:
315.75
@75% Benefit Fee:
315.75
Last updated on
March 29, 2025

When is item code 52039 (Multiple Small Lesion Removal (≤ 3 cm)) typically used?

The need for surgical excision of multiple tumours, cysts, ulcers, or scars (up to 3 cm each) from the skin, subcutaneous tissue, or mucous membrane arises when a patient has several small lesions—between 4 and 10—that collectively pose health risks, cause discomfort, or mar appearance, requiring comprehensive removal in one session. These lesions, often benign but occasionally malignant, may result from chronic irritation, trauma, or genetic predisposition, and persist despite non-surgical attempts, necessitating excision under anesthesia with assistance for efficiency and precision. This procedure is vital in the maxillofacial region where multiple sites can affect function or aesthetics significantly.

Specific indications include:

  • Multiple growths: Several small cysts on the face from acne or trauma might cause pain or infection, needing simultaneous removal.
  • Chronic ulcers: Multiple oral ulcers in a smoker could suggest premalignancy, requiring excision for diagnosis and relief.
  • Scar clusters: A series of small scars from burns or surgery might restrict movement or look unsightly, warranting group excision.
  • Recurrence risk: Patients with a history of lesions (e.g., basal cell carcinoma) need all suspicious sites addressed to prevent progression.

For instance, a patient with five 2 cm lipomas across the neck from a genetic condition might need this to stop discomfort and improve aesthetics in one go. In hospital settings, an elderly patient with multiple oral ulcers from denture irritation could benefit from this to rule out cancer and heal properly, given their frailty. The assistant ensures rapid handling of multiple sites, while suturing restores tissue, making this service essential for managing numerous small lesions efficiently, reducing overall risk and enhancing patient outcomes.

Benefits to the patient

Surgeons excising multiple tumors, cysts, ulcers, or scars (up to 3 cm each) from the patient’s skin, subcutaneous tissue, or mucosa, addressing 4–10 lesions under anesthesia with assistance, deliver comprehensive benefits. A primary advantage is addressing multiple issues simultaneously. This approach resolves several abnormalities in one session, reducing the patient’s overall treatment burden—key for 'multiple lesion removal benefits.' It also confirms pathology across all sites through tissue analysis, equipping surgeons with detailed diagnostic insights for the patient’s care. Furthermore, it restores the patient’s function or aesthetics by clearing multiple problematic areas, enhancing their comfort and appearance. For surgeons exploring 'benefits of multi-lesion excision,' this assisted procedure ensures patients benefit from efficient treatment, thorough diagnosis, and improved outcomes, making it ideal for managing several small lesions effectively.

Recovery considerations

Recovery of 2-3 weeks with swelling; multiple sutures may prolong care.

Email this page to yourself for later, and
You should receive the article link in your inbox shortly.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
For Surgeons

Explore the full Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Services and Item Codes

Not sure about what MBS Item Code you are looking for? Browse the full Schedule by treatment category.
View the full MBS Schedule
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.
This is some text inside of a div block.