How To Use CPT Code 0489T

CPT 0489T describes a procedure known as autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy for scleroderma in the hands. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0489T?

CPT 0489T can be used to describe a specific procedure that involves the extraction and preparation of a patient’s own fat cells for the treatment of scleroderma in the hands. The fat cells are harvested through liposuction and then processed to create a certain concentration and dilution of regenerative cells. These cells are then injected into the patient’s hand to address the symptoms of scleroderma.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0489T is: ‘Autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy for scleroderma in the hands; adipose tissue harvesting, isolation and preparation of harvested cells including incubation with cell dissociation enzymes, removal of non-viable cells and debris, determination of concentration and dilution of regenerative cells.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The provider uses liposuction to extract fat cells from the patient’s body.
3. The harvested fat cells undergo a series of processes, including incubation with cell dissociation enzymes, to isolate and prepare the regenerative cells.
4. Non-viable cells and debris are removed from the harvested cells.
5. The concentration and dilution of the regenerative cells are determined.
6. The prepared regenerative cells are then injected into the patient’s hand in a single injection.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0489T is used for patients who have scleroderma in their hands and require regenerative cell therapy. Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissue and results in skin tightness. The procedure is performed by a provider who is qualified to perform liposuction and administer regenerative cell therapy.

5. When to use CPT code 0489T

CPT code 0489T should be used when performing autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy specifically for scleroderma in the hands. It should not be used in conjunction with other codes that describe different procedures or treatments for scleroderma or adipose tissue harvesting.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 0489T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of scleroderma in the hands
• Details of the adipose tissue harvesting procedure
• Steps taken to isolate and prepare the harvested cells
• Concentration and dilution of the regenerative cells
• Date and time of the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 0489T, ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. It should not be reported with other codes that describe similar procedures or treatments for scleroderma or adipose tissue harvesting. Additionally, consider using modifier 49 if multiple injections are performed in one or both hands. Review the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 0489T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2018. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with scleroderma in their hands undergoes autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy to alleviate symptoms and improve hand function.
2. A provider performs liposuction to harvest fat cells from a patient, processes them to create regenerative cells, and injects them into the hands of a patient with scleroderma.
3. Autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy is administered to a patient with scleroderma in their hands, resulting in improved skin tightness and hand mobility.
4. A provider performs the procedure on a patient with scleroderma, using their own fat cells to create regenerative cells for injection into the hands.
5. Regenerative cell therapy is utilized to treat scleroderma in the hands of a patient, resulting in reduced skin tightness and improved hand function.
6. A patient with scleroderma undergoes adipose tissue harvesting and regenerative cell therapy to address symptoms and improve hand mobility.
7. The procedure is performed on a patient with scleroderma, utilizing their own fat cells to create regenerative cells for injection into the hands.
8. A provider administers autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy to a patient with scleroderma, resulting in improved skin flexibility and hand function.
9. A patient with scleroderma in their hands receives regenerative cell therapy using their own fat cells, leading to reduced skin tightness and improved hand mobility.
10. Autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy is performed on a patient with scleroderma, resulting in improved hand function and reduced skin stiffness.