Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: How do we code anesthesia for an EEG?

Maine Subscriber

Answer: The only code available is CPT 01999 (unlisted anesthesia procedure[s]). Be sure to also append modifier -23 (unusual anesthesia) and include strong documentation to support its use because EEGs do not usually require anesthesia. However, it might be required for children or physically challenged individuals undergoing a test or procedure. This is the only code appropriate because the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Relative Value Guide does not list a specific code for this procedure, and payers generally do not accept ASA-RVG codes not listed in CPT. Modifier -23 indicates to the payer that there was an unusual circumstance requiring anesthesia, for example, a child who needs to be still for an MRI or CT scan or lumbar punctures and bone marrow biopsy.