Anesthesia Coding Alert
Discuss Auditory Test Codes With Carrier
Question: What CPT and ASA code should I use for a pediatric patient who is having an auditory brain stem response under anesthesia due to hearing loss?
Texas Subscriber
Answer: CPT does not include a “closest, most accurate” code for this procedure.
Some coders recommend surgical code 92585 (Auditory evoked potentials for evoked response audiometry and/or testing of the central nervous system; comprehensive) and anesthesia code 00120 (Anesthesia for procedures on external, middle and inner ear including biopsy; not otherwise specified).
Other coders disagree with 00120, saying that the procedure is “through” the ear rather than “on” it. They opt for 01999 (Unlisted anesthesia procedure[s]) instead.
Discuss the situation with your carrier to determine the most appropriate code. Because you’re reporting an unusual case, submit the claim with reports that document medical necessity for the anesthesia.
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South Carolina Subscriber
Answer: Signage helps [...]
