How To Use CPT Code 0494T

CPT 0494T describes the surgical preparation and preservation of cadaver donor lung(s) for ex vivo organ perfusion system, including decannulation, separation from the perfusion system, and cold preservation of the allograft prior to implantation. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0494T?

CPT 0494T can be used to describe the surgical preparation and preservation of cadaver donor lung(s) for ex vivo organ perfusion system. This code is used when a provider performs the necessary surgical modifications to a cadaver donor lung, including attaching the lung to an organ perfusion system, removing the tubes, and detaching the lung from the perfusion system. The provider may also prepare the lung for cold preservation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0494T is: ‘Surgical preparation and cannulation of marginal (extended) cadaver donor lung(s) to ex vivo organ perfusion system, including decannulation, separation from the perfusion system, and cold preservation of the allograft prior to implantation, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes the necessary surgical modifications to a cadaver donor lung.
2. The lung is cannulated to attach it to an organ perfusion system.
3. The tubes are removed (decannulation) and the lung is detached from the perfusion system.
4. The provider prepares the lung for cold preservation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0494T is used when a provider performs the surgical preparation and preservation of cadaver donor lung(s) for ex vivo organ perfusion system. This code is applicable when marginal organs, which were once considered unsuitable for transplantation, are being prepared for transplantation. The provider attaches the lung to an organ perfusion system, removes the tubes, and detaches the lung from the perfusion system. The provider may also prepare the lung for cold preservation.

5. When to use CPT code 0494T

CPT code 0494T should be used when a provider performs the surgical preparation and preservation of cadaver donor lung(s) for ex vivo organ perfusion system. This code is not appropriate for other procedures or services unrelated to the surgical preparation and preservation of the lung(s).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0494T, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the surgical modifications performed on the cadaver donor lung(s)
• Details of the attachment of the lung to the organ perfusion system
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Steps taken for decannulation and detachment of the lung from the perfusion system
• Description of the lung’s preparation for cold preservation
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0494T, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. This code should not be reported with other codes unless specifically instructed to do so. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and to accurately report the services provided.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0494T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2018. It was also added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2018.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs the surgical preparation and preservation of a cadaver donor lung for ex vivo organ perfusion system, including decannulation, separation from the perfusion system, and cold preservation, prior to implantation.
2. A cardiothoracic surgeon attaches a marginal cadaver donor lung to an organ perfusion system, removes the tubes, and prepares the lung for cold preservation.
3. A transplant surgeon performs the necessary surgical modifications to a cadaver donor lung, attaches it to an organ perfusion system, and prepares it for cold preservation.
4. A thoracic surgeon decannulates a cadaver donor lung, separates it from the perfusion system, and ensures its cold preservation before implantation.
5. A surgical team collaborates to cannulate a marginal cadaver donor lung to an organ perfusion system, remove the tubes, and prepare the lung for cold preservation.
6. A transplant surgeon performs the surgical preparation and preservation of multiple cadaver donor lungs for ex vivo organ perfusion system, including decannulation, separation from the perfusion system, and cold preservation, prior to implantation.
7. A cardiothoracic surgeon attaches a cadaver donor lung to an organ perfusion system, removes the tubes, and ensures its cold preservation before implantation.
8. A transplant surgeon performs the necessary surgical modifications to a cadaver donor lung, attaches it to an organ perfusion system, and prepares it for cold preservation.
9. A thoracic surgeon decannulates a cadaver donor lung, separates it from the perfusion system, and ensures its cold preservation before implantation.
10. A surgical team collaborates to cannulate a cadaver donor lung to an organ perfusion system, remove the tubes, and prepare the lung for cold preservation.