How To Use CPT Code 0271T

CPT 0271T describes the revision or removal 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 0271T?

CPT 0271T can be used to describe the revision or removal of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. This procedure is performed to help lower the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient by stimulating the baroreceptors in the carotid arteries. It is typically used to treat resistant hypertension, which is an increase in blood pressure despite treatment with multiple antihypertensive drugs.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0271T is: ‘Revision or removal 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-0270T or 0272T-0273T. For removal and replacement procedures, different codes should be used (0266T, 0267T, 0268T).

3. Procedure

1. When performing the revision or removal of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device, the provider begins by making incisions near the clavicle on each side of the neck to access the carotid sinus.
2. Next, the provider identifies the pulse generator, which is placed subcutaneously beneath the skin, and proceeds to revise or remove it.
3. If the pulse generator is being revised, the provider tests the system for accuracy to ensure proper functioning.
4. The pulse generator stimulates the electrodes, which activate the baroreceptors in the carotid sinus, resulting in the dilation of blood vessels and reduction in heart rate and blood pressure.
5. Finally, the provider achieves hemostasis to stop any bleeding and closes the incisions in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0271T is typically performed on patients with resistant hypertension, which means their blood pressure remains high despite treatment with at least three antihypertensive drugs. The procedure involves the revision or removal of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. This device stimulates the baroreceptors in the carotid sinus to lower the heart rate and blood pressure. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with other codes in the 0266T-0270T or 0272T-0273T range.

5. When to use CPT code 0271T

CPT code 0271T should be used when the provider is performing the revision or removal of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. It is important to ensure that this code is not reported with codes in the 0266T-0270T or 0272T-0273T range. If the provider is performing a removal and replacement procedure, different codes should be used (0266T, 0267T, 0268T).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0271T, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the revision or removal of the pulse generator
• Intra-operative interrogation, programming, and repositioning, if performed
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incisions made, revision or removal of the pulse generator, and closure of incisions
• Any complications or adverse events that occurred during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0271T, it is important to ensure that the procedure involves the revision or removal of the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device. This code should not be reported with codes in the 0266T-0270T or 0272T-0273T range. If the provider is performing a removal and replacement procedure, different codes should be used (0266T, 0267T, 0268T). It is also important to append modifier 60 if the provider is revising or removing the leads bilaterally, and to use code 0269T if both leads and pulse generator are being revised or removed.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0271T 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 revising the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
2. A surgeon removing the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
3. A cardiologist revising the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
4. An interventional radiologist removing the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
5. A cardiovascular surgeon revising the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
6. A vascular surgeon removing the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
7. An electrophysiologist revising the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
8. A neurosurgeon removing the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
9. An interventional cardiologist revising the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.
10. A cardiac electrophysiologist removing the pulse generator of a carotid sinus baroreflex activation device for a patient with resistant hypertension.