How To Use CPT Code 0655T

CPT 0655T describes the transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue, including transrectal imaging guidance, with MR-fused images or other enhanced ultrasound imaging. 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 0655T?

CPT 0655T can be used to describe a specific procedure involving the use of laser ablation to destroy malignant prostate tissue. This procedure is performed through a transperineal approach, guided by transrectal imaging such as MR-fused images or other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0655T is: ‘Transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue, including transrectal imaging guidance, with MR-fused images or other enhanced ultrasound imaging.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. An imaging probe, such as an ultrasound probe, is inserted into the rectum to visualize the prostate on a screen.
3. The provider utilizes enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques, such as MR-fused images, to improve precision during the procedure.
4. A laser device is inserted through the perineum (the area between the anus and scrotum) and into the prostate lesion.
5. Focal laser ablation is performed, using heat to destroy cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
6. The surgical instruments are then removed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0655T is applicable when a patient requires transperineal focal laser ablation for the treatment of malignant prostate tissue. The procedure must be guided by transrectal imaging, such as MR-fused images or other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques.

5. When to use CPT code 0655T

CPT code 0655T should be used when performing transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue with transrectal imaging guidance. It is important to ensure that the procedure includes the use of MR-fused images or other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques for improved precision.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0655T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for transperineal focal laser ablation
• Details of the transrectal imaging guidance used, such as MR-fused images or other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Specific steps performed during the procedure, including the use of laser ablation and any additional techniques utilized
• Documentation of the removal of surgical instruments
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0655T, ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. It is important to note that CPT code 0655T should not be reported in conjunction with codes 52000, 76376, 76377, 76872, 76940, 76942, or 76998. Additionally, consider the specific guidelines provided by payers regarding reimbursement for this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0655T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2021. As a relatively new code, there have been no updates or changes since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue using transrectal imaging guidance with MR-fused images.
2. During the procedure, the provider utilizes enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques other than MR-fused images to guide the transperineal focal laser ablation.
3. A patient undergoes transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue with transrectal imaging guidance, using a combination of MR-fused images and other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques.
4. The provider performs transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue, guided by transrectal imaging using only MR-fused images.
5. During the procedure, the provider utilizes transrectal imaging guidance with other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques, excluding MR-fused images, for the transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue.
6. A patient undergoes transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue with transrectal imaging guidance, utilizing MR-fused images and additional enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques.
7. The provider performs transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue, guided by transrectal imaging using MR-fused images and other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques simultaneously.
8. During the procedure, the provider utilizes transrectal imaging guidance with MR-fused images and other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques sequentially for the transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue.
9. A patient undergoes transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue with transrectal imaging guidance, using a combination of MR-fused images and other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques in a specific order.
10. The provider performs transperineal focal laser ablation of malignant prostate tissue, guided by transrectal imaging using MR-fused images and other enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques interchangeably.