How To Use CPT Code 15840

CPT code 15840 describes the procedure for grafting free fascia to restore a more normal appearance in patients suffering from facial nerve paralysis. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 15840?

CPT 15840 is used to describe the procedure of grafting free fascia to restore a more normal appearance in patients with facial nerve paralysis. This code is used when a piece of tissue is removed from an area of the body, such as the thigh, and attached to the face to improve facial movement and symmetry.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 15840 is: ‘Graft for facial nerve paralysis free fascia graft (including obtaining fascia).’ This code may require the use of modifier 50 for bilateral procedures.

3. Procedure

During the procedure described by CPT 15840, the provider begins by making an incision in the thigh and removing a piece of fascial tissue suitable for grafting. This tissue, known as fascia lata, is a deep connective tissue of the thigh and is the most appropriate tissue for grafting. The provider then transplants the fascial graft to the affected area of the face and sutures it in place. This procedure aims to restore facial movement and improve the overall appearance of patients with facial nerve paralysis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 15840 is used for patients who have facial nerve paralysis, which refers to the loss of movement in the face due to damage of the facial nerve. The procedure is performed to restore a more normal appearance and improve facial movement in these patients. The provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for the grafting procedure. It is important to note that this code may require the use of modifier 50 for bilateral procedures.

5. When to use CPT code 15840

CPT code 15840 should be used when a provider performs the grafting procedure using free fascia to restore a more normal appearance in patients with facial nerve paralysis. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. This code should not be used for procedures that involve grafting other types of tissue or for conditions other than facial nerve paralysis.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 15840, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of facial nerve paralysis
• Details of the procedure, including the site from which the fascial tissue was obtained
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as the use of modifier 50 for bilateral procedures
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 15840, ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. It is important to use the appropriate modifier, such as modifier 50 for bilateral procedures, if applicable. Review the payer’s guidelines and policies to ensure accurate and appropriate billing for this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 15840 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 15840

There are several similar codes to CPT 15840 that describe other repair procedures on the integumentary system. Some examples include:

• CPT 15780: Graft for facial nerve paralysis; temporalis muscle
• CPT 15781: Graft for facial nerve paralysis; muscle other than temporalis
• CPT 15782: Graft for facial nerve paralysis; nerve graft, direct
• CPT 15783: Graft for facial nerve paralysis; nerve graft, cable
• CPT 15786: Graft for facial nerve paralysis; muscle and nerve graft, direct

9. Examples

1. A patient with facial nerve paralysis undergoes a grafting procedure using free fascia to restore facial movement and improve appearance.
2. A provider performs a bilateral grafting procedure using free fascia to address facial nerve paralysis in a patient.
3. A patient with facial nerve paralysis undergoes a grafting procedure using free fascia obtained from the thigh to restore facial movement and symmetry.
4. A provider performs a grafting procedure using free fascia to improve facial movement and appearance in a patient with facial nerve paralysis.
5. A patient with facial nerve paralysis undergoes a grafting procedure using free fascia to restore facial symmetry and improve overall appearance.
6. A provider performs a grafting procedure using free fascia to address facial nerve paralysis in a patient, resulting in improved facial movement and appearance.
7. A patient with facial nerve paralysis undergoes a grafting procedure using free fascia obtained from the thigh to restore facial movement and improve overall appearance.
8. A provider performs a bilateral grafting procedure using free fascia to address facial nerve paralysis in a patient, resulting in improved facial movement and symmetry.
9. A patient with facial nerve paralysis undergoes a grafting procedure using free fascia to restore facial movement and improve overall appearance.
10. A provider performs a grafting procedure using free fascia to address facial nerve paralysis in a patient, resulting in improved facial movement and symmetry.