Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Question: Our neurologist conducts facial nerve monitoring to help diagnose Bell's palsy. What codes should I report?

Florida Subscriber

Answer: Begin with the correct diagnosis for Bell's palsy (351.0). Then report 92516 (Facial nerve function studies [e.g., electroneuronography]) for the actual test.

Explanation: Bell's palsy is a temporary facial paralysis because of damage to one of the two facial nerves. The condition usually affects only one of the facial nerves and one side of the patient's face. Scientists don't know what causes Bell's palsy and don't completely understand its development. Many scientists believe, however, that a viral infection, such as viral meningitis or herpes simplex, can cause Bell's palsy when the facial nerve swells and becomes inflamed as a reaction to the infection.

Impairment of electrical impulses directed to the patient's facial muscles by the damaged nerve results in the weakness or paralysis of these muscles. The facial nerve monitoring your physician conducts helps determine the extent of damage or weakness.