How To Use CPT Code 0720T

CPT 0720T describes the percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without 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 0720T?

CPT 0720T can be used to describe the percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation. This code is used when a provider affixes a stimulation device and electrodes in the external ear area to deliver pulse sequences to the targeted cranial nerves. The purpose of this procedure is to potentially alleviate pain and withdrawal symptoms.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0720T is: ‘Percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation, cranial nerves, without implantation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure.
2. The provider affixes the percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulator behind the patient’s ear.
3. The provider positions and affixes the electrodes of the electrode array on the external ear’s surface.
4. The provider may shine light through the outer ear to visualize the blood vessels and identify the position of related cranial nerve branches.
5. The provider places the electrodes in the target locations on the external ear.
6. The provider uses adhesives and fixation plasters to affix the system on the skin.
7. The stimulator delivers pulse sequences to the targeted cranial nerves.
8. The provider monitors the patient’s response and adjusts the stimulation parameters as needed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT 0720T are those who may benefit from percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation. This procedure is typically used for patients experiencing pain and withdrawal symptoms. The provider must affix the stimulation device and electrodes in the external ear area and deliver pulse sequences to the targeted cranial nerves.

5. When to use CPT code 0720T

CPT code 0720T should be used when a provider performs percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation. This code is appropriate for cases where the provider affixes the stimulation device and electrodes in the external ear area and delivers pulse sequences to the targeted cranial nerves. It should not be used for procedures involving implantation of the system.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 0720T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and indication for percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation
• Details of the procedure, including the placement of the stimulation device and electrodes
• Stimulation parameters used, including pulse sequences and adjustments made
• Monitoring of the patient’s response during the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or observations

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 0720T, ensure that the provider performs percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation. This code should not be reported with codes 0721T to 0723T, as those codes involve implantation procedures. It is important to follow the specific coding guidelines and requirements of the payer when submitting claims for CPT 0720T.

8. Historical information

CPT 0720T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2022. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation to potentially alleviate pain in a patient with trigeminal neuralgia.
2. A patient undergoing opioid withdrawal receives percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation to help manage withdrawal symptoms.
3. A provider uses percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation as part of a comprehensive pain management plan for a patient with chronic migraine.
4. To address postoperative pain, a provider performs percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation in a patient who recently underwent a craniotomy.
5. A patient with facial paralysis receives percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation to potentially improve nerve function and facial muscle control.
6. A provider utilizes percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation to manage pain and withdrawal symptoms in a patient with substance use disorder.
7. In a palliative care setting, a provider performs percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation to provide pain relief for a terminally ill patient.
8. A patient with chronic cluster headaches receives percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation as part of their multidisciplinary headache management plan.
9. A provider offers percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation as an alternative therapy for a patient with refractory trigeminal neuropathy.
10. To address neuropathic pain, a provider performs percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation of the cranial nerves without implantation in a patient with diabetic neuropathy.