How To Use CPT Code 0681T

CPT 0681T describes the relocation of a pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system for the augmentation of cardiac function. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0681T?

CPT 0681T can be used to describe the relocation of a pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system. This procedure is performed to augment cardiac function in patients with heart failure. The pulse generator is moved to a new location, and it is connected to existing dual leads that are already in place.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0681T is: ‘Relocation of pulse generator only, permanent implantable synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system for augmentation of cardiac function, with connection to existing dual leads.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and ensures they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made to access the previously placed pulse generator, which is located in a subcutaneous pocket.
3. Another incision is made in the abdomen to create a new pocket under the skin.
4. The pulse generator is relocated to the new pocket, and the leads are connected to the generator.
5. The provider closes the pockets and may perform interrogation and programming of the device as part of the procedure.
6. The synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system uses small shocks from the lead electrodes to stimulate the diaphragm below the heart, synchronizing with the cardiac cycle to improve heart filling and emptying in patients with heart failure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0681T is performed on patients with heart failure who require augmentation of cardiac function. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 0674T, 0675T, 0676T, 0677T, 0678T, 0679T, 0680T, 0682T, 0683T, 0684T, or 0685T.

5. When to use CPT code 0681T

CPT code 0681T should be used when the provider relocates the pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system for the augmentation of cardiac function. It is important to ensure that the procedure involves only the relocation of the pulse generator and connection to existing dual leads. If additional procedures are performed, other appropriate codes should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0681T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for augmentation of cardiac function
• Details of the relocation procedure, including the incisions made and the location of the new pocket
• Connection of the pulse generator to existing dual leads
• Any additional procedures performed, if applicable
• Interrogation and programming of the device, if performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0681T, ensure that the procedure involves only the relocation of the pulse generator and connection to existing dual leads. It should not be reported with codes 0674T to 0685T. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0681T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2022. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with heart failure undergoes the relocation of a pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system to augment cardiac function.
2. A provider performs the relocation procedure on a patient with heart failure, connecting the pulse generator to existing dual leads for the augmentation of cardiac function.
3. In a patient with heart failure, the pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system is relocated to a new pocket, and the existing dual leads are connected to the generator.
4. A provider performs the relocation of a pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system for the augmentation of cardiac function in a patient with heart failure.
5. The pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system is relocated in a patient with heart failure, connecting it to existing dual leads to augment cardiac function.
6. A patient with heart failure undergoes the relocation procedure of a pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system, which is connected to existing dual leads for the augmentation of cardiac function.
7. In a patient with heart failure, the provider performs the relocation of the pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system, connecting it to existing dual leads to augment cardiac function.
8. A provider performs the relocation procedure on a patient with heart failure, relocating the pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system and connecting it to existing dual leads for the augmentation of cardiac function.
9. The pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system is relocated in a patient with heart failure, augmenting cardiac function by connecting it to existing dual leads.
10. A patient with heart failure undergoes the relocation procedure of a pulse generator in a synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system, connecting it to existing dual leads to enhance cardiac function.