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SEER Inquiry System - Report
Produced: 09/16/2026 3:48 AM
Question 20140014
Inquiry Details
References:
#1: SINQ 20051064
#2: SEER Manual. 2026, Appendix C Anus Surgery Codes
Question:
First course treatment/Surgery of Primary Site--Anus: Would infrared coagulation be coded as treatment for AIN III of the anus/anal canal? See discussion.
Discussion:
SINQ 20051064 indicates infrared coagulation is not treatment for cancer. Internet search explains that infrared coagulation delivers heat to destroy the tissue so it can be removed. In our region it is currently used to treat internal and external anal low grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) and high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). While it is understandable that this wouldn't be coded as treatment for an invasive anal primary, could it be treatment for an in situ tumor? If it is treatment, should it be coded under Surgery code 15
Answer:
Updated September 2026
Code infrared coagulation as cancer-directed treatment if the physician states IRC was used to treat AIN III. In this situation, code as A100 (Local tumor destruction, NOS) using the 2026 SEER Manual, Appendix C, Anus Surgery Codes.
The answer to SINQ 20050164 no longer applies.
History:
Original answer: The answer to SINQ 20050164 still applies. Do not code infrared coagulation as cancer treatment. It is used to coagulate blood vessels and not to destroy cancer tissue.
Cancer Site Category:
N/A
Data Item Category:
First course treatment, Surgery of Primary Site
Other Category:
SEER Manual
Year:
2014
