How To Use CPT Code 61886

CPT 61886 describes the insertion or replacement of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver, with connection to two or more electrode arrays. 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 61886?

CPT 61886 can be used to describe the procedure of inserting or replacing a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver, with connection to two or more electrode arrays. This code is typically used to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, tremors, or multiple sclerosis. The provider may need to replace the pulse generator or receiver due to a component malfunction.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 61886 is: ‘Insertion or replacement of cranial neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver, direct or inductive coupling; with connection to two or more electrode arrays.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. Next, the provider selects a location for the implantation of the neurostimulator device, usually in the upper left area of the chest or under the left arm.
3. An incision is made, either at the selected location or at the scar from a previous placement operation.
4. If it is a new insertion, the provider creates a pocket for the neurostimulator device by bluntly dissecting the tissue.
5. The provider then passes the leads subcutaneously from each of the electrode arrays to the generator pocket using a tunneling device.
6. The leads are connected to the generator, and for a replacement, the existing generator is carefully excised and replaced.
7. The provider tests the unit to ensure its functionality.
8. If the tests are successful, the generator is placed into the pocket and secured with sutures to the fibrous tissue under the skin.
9. Finally, the wound and skin are closed with sutures or tissue adhesive.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 61886 is typically performed on patients with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, tremors, or multiple sclerosis. The procedure involves the insertion or replacement of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver, with connection to two or more electrode arrays. This code is used when the provider needs to treat the patient’s condition by stimulating the nerve pathways.

5. When to use CPT code 61886

CPT code 61886 should be used when the provider performs the insertion or replacement of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver, with connection to two or more electrode arrays. This code is appropriate for cases where the patient’s condition requires the use of a neurostimulator to manage symptoms or improve their quality of life.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 61886, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the neurostimulator procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the location of the implantation, incision, and creation of the pocket
• Connection of the leads to the generator and the number of electrode arrays used
• Testing of the unit and its successful functionality
• Placement of the generator into the pocket and its securement
• Closure of the wound and skin
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 61886, ensure that the procedure involves the insertion or replacement of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver, with connection to two or more electrode arrays. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code and to consider any additional codes that may need to be reported in conjunction with CPT 61886. For example, if the procedure involves the placement, revision, or removal of the pulse generator or receiver alone, different codes should be used.

8. Historical information

CPT code 61886 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2000. Since its addition, there have been historical changes to the code, including updates to the description and the addition of notes.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the insertion of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to two electrode arrays to treat a patient with Parkinson’s disease.
2. For a patient with tremors, a provider replaces the cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to three electrode arrays to improve symptom management.
3. A provider performs the insertion of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to two electrode arrays to treat a patient with multiple sclerosis.
4. For a patient with Parkinson’s disease, a provider replaces the cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to four electrode arrays to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.
5. A provider performs the insertion of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to two electrode arrays to alleviate tremors in a patient.
6. For a patient with multiple sclerosis, a provider replaces the cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to three electrode arrays to improve symptom management.
7. A provider performs the insertion of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to two electrode arrays to treat a patient with tremors.
8. For a patient with Parkinson’s disease, a provider replaces the cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to four electrode arrays to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.
9. A provider performs the insertion of a cranial neurostimulator pulse generator and connects it to two electrode arrays to alleviate tremors in a patient.