How To Use CPT Code 62000

CPT 62000 describes the procedure for the elevation of a depressed skull fracture. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 62000?

CPT 62000 is used to describe the procedure for elevating a depressed skull fracture. This code is used when a provider makes a burr hole in the scalp and elevates the depressed portion of the skull bone that has not reached the outer membrane covering the brain, known as the dura.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62000 is: ‘Elevation of depressed skull fracture; simple, extradural.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the scalp to locate the depressed skull fracture.
3. A burr hole is created in the skull to access the cranium.
4. The depressed bone in the skull is elevated by pulling it outward to restore its anatomical position.
5. The layers of scalp tissue are sutured together, and the wound is covered with a sterile dressing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62000 is performed when a patient has a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture. This means that the fracture is closed and has not reached the outer membrane covering the brain. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified provider who has the necessary skills and expertise to perform the elevation of the depressed skull fracture.

5. When to use CPT code 62000

CPT code 62000 should be used when a provider performs the procedure to elevate a depressed skull fracture. It is important to ensure that the fracture meets the criteria of being simple and extradural. If the fracture is more complex or involves other structures, a different CPT code may be more appropriate.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 62000, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the presence of a depressed skull fracture
• Details of the procedure performed, including the location and size of the burr hole
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62000, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any associated complications. CPT code 62000 should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures are performed that are separately billable.

8. Historical information

CPT 62000 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs CPT 62000 to elevate a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture in a patient involved in a car accident.
2. During a surgical procedure, a surgeon uses CPT 62000 to elevate a depressed skull fracture caused by a fall.
3. A patient with a sports-related injury undergoes CPT 62000 to elevate a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture.
4. A provider performs CPT 62000 to elevate a depressed skull fracture in a patient who sustained a head injury in a workplace accident.
5. During a routine examination, a provider discovers a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture and performs CPT 62000 to elevate it.
6. A patient involved in a physical altercation undergoes CPT 62000 to elevate a depressed skull fracture caused by the impact.
7. A provider performs CPT 62000 to elevate a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture in a patient who fell from a ladder.
8. During a diagnostic imaging procedure, a radiologist identifies a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture and recommends CPT 62000 for elevation.
9. A patient involved in a recreational accident undergoes CPT 62000 to elevate a depressed skull fracture caused by the incident.
10. A provider performs CPT 62000 to elevate a simple, extradural depressed skull fracture in a patient who was struck by a falling object.