How To Use CPT Code 54620

CPT 54620 describes the surgical procedure of fixing a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the one previously operated on, in order to restore blood supply to the testis. 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 54620?

CPT 54620 is used to describe the surgical procedure of fixing a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the one previously operated on. This procedure is performed to restore blood supply to the testis and prevent future occurrences of torsion. It is important to note that this code is used as a separate procedure to fixation of the other testicle.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 54620 is: ‘Fixation of contralateral testis (separate procedure).’ This code is used when the provider surgically fixes a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the previously fixed testicle to restore blood flow.

3. Procedure

1. When the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized, the provider makes an incision in the scrotum opposite to the previously fixed testicle.
2. The provider exposes the testicle and spermatic cord, and corrects both to their normal position by unwinding the torsion.
3. After restoring the blood flow, the provider places the testicle well inside the scrotum and sutures it to the scrotal wall to prevent future torsion.
4. The provider checks the cord for any abnormalities and then closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 54620 is performed on patients who have a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the one previously fixed. This procedure is necessary to restore blood supply to the testis and prevent further complications. It is important to note that this code should not be reported when performed along with a related procedure in the same anatomic area or through the same incision or surgical approach.

5. When to use CPT code 54620

CPT code 54620 should be used when the provider performs a separate procedure to fix a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the one previously operated on. It should not be reported when performed along with a related procedure in the same anatomic area or through the same incision or surgical approach.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 54620, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for fixing the twisted testicle
• Details of the procedure performed, including the incision, unwinding of the torsion, placement of the testicle, and closure of the incision
• Any abnormalities found in the cord
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 54620, ensure that the procedure is performed as a separate procedure to fixation of the other testicle. If the procedure is performed along with an unrelated procedure, append modifier 59, Distinct procedural service, to the code. It is important to check with individual payers for their specific requirements and guidelines for reporting bilateral procedures.

8. Historical information

CPT 54620 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs CPT 54620 to fix a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the one previously operated on, restoring blood supply to the testis.
2. During a separate procedure, a provider corrects the torsion of a testicle on the opposite side of the previously fixed testicle, ensuring proper blood flow.
3. A patient undergoes CPT 54620 to prevent future occurrences of torsion by fixing the twisted testicle on the opposite side of the previously operated on testicle.
4. A provider surgically restores blood supply to the testis by fixing a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the previously fixed testicle using CPT 54620.
5. During a separate procedure, a provider unwinds the torsion of a testicle on the opposite side of the previously operated on testicle, preventing further complications.
6. A patient undergoes CPT 54620 to correct the twisted testicle on the opposite side of the previously fixed testicle, ensuring proper blood flow and preventing future torsion.
7. A provider performs a separate procedure to fix a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the previously operated on testicle, restoring blood supply and preventing future complications.
8. During CPT 54620, a provider corrects the torsion of a testicle on the opposite side of the previously fixed testicle, ensuring proper blood flow and preventing future occurrences of torsion.
9. A patient undergoes a separate procedure, CPT 54620, to fix the twisted testicle on the opposite side of the previously operated on testicle, restoring blood supply and preventing further complications.
10. A provider surgically fixes a twisted testicle on the opposite side of the previously fixed testicle, restoring blood flow and preventing future torsion using CPT 54620.