15271 series vs 15777

I realize 15777 is an add on code but can someone tell me what the difference between using the 15271 series of codes vs 15777? We use Alloderm, Allomax, Oasis, Flex HD and Strattice mesh. When doing hernia repair w/Strattice I was using 49568. I was using 15271 series for all of the other above when done with breast reconstruction revisions, lat flaps and tissue expanders. I have never used 15777 but now I think I should be adding it to another code but I'm not sure what code and when to use it. HELP PLEASE!!!! I don't want to be miscoding and the description of both sounds very similar to me...

re: 15271 series vs 15777

Use 15271 when the substance is place on the surface and used as a substitute for skin (eg, burns). Use 15777 when the substance is placed under the skin and used for soft tissue reinforcement (eg, breast reconstruction) such as a tissue expander breast reconstruction with AlloDerm placement (report 19357 and 15777).

Kim Pollock, RN, MBA, CPC
KarenZupko & Associates, Inc.
www.karenzupko.com