How To Use CPT Code 0639T

CPT 0639T describes the use of a wireless skin sensor to measure thermal anisotropy and assess flow in cerebrospinal fluid shunts, including ultrasound guidance if performed. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0639T?

CPT 0639T can be used to report the use of a wireless skin sensor to measure thermal anisotropy and assess flow in cerebrospinal fluid shunts. This code includes the attachment of a wireless sensor to the patient’s skin and the measurement of thermal anisotropy, which refers to variations in properties based on the direction of measurement. The purpose of this procedure is to evaluate the function of the shunt and determine if it is working properly. Ultrasound guidance may be used during the procedure, but it is not required.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0639T is: ‘Wireless skin sensor thermal anisotropy measurement(s) and assessment of flow in cerebrospinal fluid shunt, including ultrasound guidance, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider attaches a wireless skin sensor to the patient’s skin.
2. The sensor measures thermal anisotropy, which involves variations in temperature downstream and upstream from the cerebrospinal fluid shunt.
3. Computational models are used to determine the flow rate based on the data collected by the sensor.
4. If necessary, the provider may use ultrasound guidance to obtain images of the skin and underlying shunt tubing.
5. The data collected from the measurements helps the provider assess the function of the shunt and determine if any adjustments or interventions are needed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0639T is used for patients with a cerebrospinal fluid shunt, which is a tube used to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid. The procedure is typically performed for patients with hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by the swelling or enlargement of the brain’s ventricles due to obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid flow. The use of a wireless skin sensor to measure thermal anisotropy and assess flow in the shunt can help providers determine if the shunt is functioning properly. Ultrasound guidance may be used during the procedure, but it is not required.

5. When to use CPT code 0639T

CPT code 0639T should be used when a provider performs the wireless skin sensor measurement and assessment of flow in a cerebrospinal fluid shunt. This code is appropriate when the provider attaches the sensor to the patient’s skin, measures thermal anisotropy, and assesses the flow in the shunt. If ultrasound guidance is used during the procedure, it should also be reported with this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0639T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the presence of a cerebrospinal fluid shunt
• Description of the wireless skin sensor used and its attachment to the patient’s skin
• Details of the thermal anisotropy measurements and assessment of flow in the shunt
• If performed, documentation of the use of ultrasound guidance during the procedure
• Any additional findings or interventions resulting from the assessment
• Provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0639T, ensure that the procedure involves the use of a wireless skin sensor to measure thermal anisotropy and assess flow in a cerebrospinal fluid shunt. If ultrasound guidance is performed during the procedure, it should also be reported. Do not report CPT code 0639T in conjunction with codes 76998 or 76999. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by payers and coding authorities for accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0639T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2021. As of the provided information, there have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider attaches a wireless skin sensor to a patient with a cerebrospinal fluid shunt and measures thermal anisotropy to assess the flow in the shunt.
2. During the procedure, the provider uses ultrasound guidance to obtain images of the skin and underlying shunt tubing while performing the wireless skin sensor measurement and assessment.
3. A patient with hydrocephalus undergoes the wireless skin sensor measurement and assessment of flow in their cerebrospinal fluid shunt without the use of ultrasound guidance.
4. A provider performs the procedure on a pediatric patient with a cerebrospinal fluid shunt to evaluate the shunt’s function and make any necessary adjustments.
5. Using the wireless skin sensor, the provider measures thermal anisotropy and assesses the flow in a cerebrospinal fluid shunt for a patient with a history of shunt malfunction.
6. During the procedure, the provider documents the findings from the wireless skin sensor measurement and assessment, including any abnormalities or concerns.
7. A provider performs the wireless skin sensor measurement and assessment of flow in a cerebrospinal fluid shunt for a patient with recurring symptoms of hydrocephalus.
8. The procedure is performed on an adult patient with a cerebrospinal fluid shunt to monitor the shunt’s function and ensure proper drainage of cerebrospinal fluid.
9. A provider uses the wireless skin sensor to measure thermal anisotropy and assess the flow in a cerebrospinal fluid shunt, providing valuable information for the patient’s ongoing management.
10. During the procedure, the provider discusses the results of the wireless skin sensor measurement and assessment with the patient, addressing any concerns or questions.