How To Use CPT Code 0268T

CPT 0268T describes the implantation or replacement of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0268T?

CPT 0268T can be used to describe the procedure in which the provider implants or replaces the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. This device is designed to lower the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient by stimulating the baroreceptors in the carotid sinus. It is typically used to treat resistant hypertension, which is an increase in blood pressure despite treatment with at least three antihypertensive drugs.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0268T is: ‘Implantation or replacement of carotid sinus baroreflex activation device; pulse generator only (includes intra-operative interrogation, programming, and repositioning, when performed).’ It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 0266T, 0267T, 0269T, 0270T, 0271T, 0272T, or 0273T.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. An incision is made near the clavicle on each side of the neck to access the carotid sinus.
3. The pulse generator is then implanted subcutaneously beneath the skin.
4. The provider connects the pulse generator to the electrodes placed within the carotid sinus through wires.
5. The system is tested for accuracy to ensure proper functioning.
6. Upon initiation, the pulse generator stimulates the electrodes, activating the baroreceptors in the carotid sinus.
7. This activation leads to the dilation of blood vessels, resulting in a reduction in heart rate and blood pressure.
8. The provider achieves hemostasis and closes the incision in layers to complete the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0268T is typically performed on patients with resistant hypertension, which refers to an increase in blood pressure despite treatment with at least three antihypertensive drugs. The procedure involves the implantation or replacement of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. It is important to note that if both leads and the pulse generator are implanted or replaced, code 0266T should be used. If only unilateral leads are implanted or replaced, code 0267T should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 0268T

CPT code 0268T should be used when the provider performs the implantation or replacement of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 0266T, 0267T, 0269T, 0270T, 0271T, 0272T, or 0273T.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0268T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of resistant hypertension
• Details of the procedure, including the implantation or replacement of the pulse generator
• Intra-operative interrogation, programming, and repositioning, if performed
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0268T, ensure that the procedure involves the implantation or replacement of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 0266T, 0267T, 0269T, 0270T, 0271T, 0272T, or 0273T. Additional tips for reporting CPT code 0268T include:

• If both leads and the pulse generator are implanted or replaced, use code 0266T
• If only unilateral leads are implanted or replaced, use code 0267T

8. Historical information

CPT code 0268T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2012. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider implants a pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device to treat a patient with resistant hypertension.
2. A patient with resistant hypertension undergoes the replacement of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device.
3. A provider performs the implantation of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
4. A pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device is replaced in a patient with resistant hypertension.
5. A provider performs the implantation of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device to aid in lowering the heart rate and blood pressure of a patient with resistant hypertension.
6. A patient with resistant hypertension undergoes the replacement of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device to improve their blood pressure control.
7. A provider implants a pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device to help manage the blood pressure of a patient with resistant hypertension.
8. A pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device is replaced in a patient with resistant hypertension to optimize their blood pressure management.
9. A provider performs the implantation of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension to aid in their blood pressure control.
10. A patient with resistant hypertension undergoes the replacement of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device to improve their overall cardiovascular health.