Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Question: When our provider implants a neurostimulator electrode array in the hypoglossal nerve using open technique, should I report 64575? Among the codes I see for this service, I can’t decide which one most closely resembles this surgery.

Oregon Subscriber

Answer: Provided the surgeon’s service meets all of the other requirements set forth in the code descriptor, you should use 64582 (Open implantation of hypoglossal nerve neurostimulator array, pulse generator, and distal respiratory sensor electrode or electrode array) for this service.

This code was added to the end of the Open Implantation Neurostimulator Electrodes, Cranial Nerve (Vagus Nerve Stimulation) code set in CPT^® 2022.

You might have just missed this code in your CPT^® book; or perhaps you are using an outdated code book. If the former is true, no worries; if the latter is the case, you should try to update your code book as soon as possible and every year.

Your question shows the dangers of using outdated coding books. Since 64582 is on the books, you’re going to want to use it in this situation.