How To Use CPT Code 0600T

CPT 0600T describes a specific procedure known as irreversible electroporation ablation. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0600T.

1. What is CPT Code 0600T?

CPT 0600T is a code used to describe the procedure of irreversible electroporation ablation. This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a probe through the skin and other tissues to the area of the tumor. Very short but strong nonthermal electrical pulses are then sent to punch holes in the cells’ membranes, destroying the cells and preventing them from dividing. This procedure can be performed on one or more tumors per organ and includes imaging guidance.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0600T is: ‘Ablation, irreversible electroporation; 1 or more tumors per organ, including imaging guidance, when performed, percutaneous.’ It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 76940, 77002, 77013, or 77022.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is prepped and placed under general anesthesia and deep neuromuscular blockade to prevent movement during the procedure.
2. An ECG is used to monitor the patient’s heartbeat, and the pulses are synchronized accordingly.
3. The provider guides a specially designed probe with a radiopaque tip under CT imaging guidance to the tumor.
4. A computer-controlled pulse generator delivers powerful but short bursts of nonthermal energy through the probe, punching holes in the cellular membrane of cells in the peritumor area.
5. A mechanical guide may be used to ensure proper placement of the pulses.
6. After the procedure, the probe is removed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0600T is used for patients who require irreversible electroporation ablation for one or more tumors per organ. This procedure is typically performed on organs such as the liver, pancreas, prostate, or other organs affected by tumors. It is important to note that imaging guidance is included in this code, so it should not be reported separately.

5. When to use CPT code 0600T

CPT code 0600T should be used when a provider performs irreversible electroporation ablation on one or more tumors per organ using percutaneous techniques. It is important to remember not to report this code in conjunction with codes 76940, 77002, 77013, or 77022.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0600T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for irreversible electroporation ablation
• Details of the procedure, including the use of imaging guidance
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Number and location of tumors treated
• Any additional relevant information or complications

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0600T, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria specified in the official description. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with codes 76940, 77002, 77013, or 77022. Additionally, it is recommended to check with the payer regarding coverage and reimbursement for this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0600T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2020. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with liver cancer undergoes irreversible electroporation ablation on multiple tumors in the liver.
2. A prostate cancer patient receives irreversible electroporation ablation for a single tumor in the prostate gland.
3. A pancreatic cancer patient undergoes irreversible electroporation ablation on multiple tumors in the pancreas.
4. A patient with multiple tumors in the lungs undergoes irreversible electroporation ablation on each tumor.
5. An individual with a tumor in the kidney receives irreversible electroporation ablation for that specific tumor.
6. A patient with a tumor in the adrenal gland undergoes irreversible electroporation ablation on that tumor.
7. A person with a tumor in the spleen receives irreversible electroporation ablation for that particular tumor.
8. An individual with a tumor in the bladder undergoes irreversible electroporation ablation on that tumor.
9. A patient with multiple tumors in the brain receives irreversible electroporation ablation on each tumor.
10. An individual with a tumor in the thyroid gland undergoes irreversible electroporation ablation on that tumor.