Advanced Search

Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Choose 61885, 61886 for Pulse Generator Placement

Published on Mon Feb 27, 2006

Question: How should I report a procedure in which my neurosurgeon implants subthalamic brain stimulation pulse generators?


New Hampshire Subscriber
Answer: You have two code choices, and the difference between them is the number of electrode arrays your neurosurgeon connects to the generator.

Use 61885 (Insertion or replacement of cranial neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver, direct or inductive coupling; with connection to a single electrode array) if the neurosurgeon places a neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver that's attached to a single electrode array.

Use 61886 (-with connection to two or more electrode arrays) to report the generator placement when it is attached to multiple electrode arrays.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Neurosurgery Coding Alert

View All