How To Use CPT Code 62142

CPT 62142 describes the removal of a previously placed bone flap or prosthetic skull plate. 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 62142?

CPT 62142 is used to describe the removal of a bone flap or prosthetic skull plate that was previously placed. This procedure is typically performed when there are complications such as infection, swelling, overlying wound healing problems, or regrowth of a tumor.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62142 is the “Removal of bone flap or prosthetic plate of skull.” This procedure involves the provider making an incision in the scalp, lifting the skin and muscle, removing the screws or wires used to secure the bone flap or plate, and then suturing the layers of scalp tissue together.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the scalp over the bone flap or prosthetic plate.
3. The skin and muscle are lifted and folded back to expose the bone flap or plate.
4. The screws or wires used to secure the bone flap or plate are removed.
5. The bone flap or plate is lifted and removed.
6. The tissue flap is folded back over the dura.
7. The layers of scalp tissue are sutured together.
8. The wound is covered with a sterile dressing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62142 is performed when there are complications related to a previously placed bone flap or prosthetic skull plate. These complications may include infection, swelling, overlying wound healing problems, or regrowth of a tumor. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 62142

CPT code 62142 should be used when a previously placed bone flap or prosthetic skull plate needs to be removed due to complications. It is important to ensure that the procedure is documented accurately and that the appropriate documentation requirements are met.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 62142, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Reason for the removal of the bone flap or prosthetic plate
• Details of any complications or issues related to the previous placement
• Date of the procedure
• Incision site and approach used
• Details of the procedure, including the removal of screws or wires
• Closure technique used
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62142, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the necessary criteria for reimbursement. The procedure should be documented accurately, and the appropriate documentation should be submitted with the claim. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 62142 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare reimbursement.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes the removal of a previously placed bone flap due to infection.
2. A prosthetic skull plate is removed and replaced due to overlying wound healing problems.
3. A bone flap is removed to address swelling and regrowth of a tumor.
4. A patient requires the removal of a prosthetic plate due to complications related to the previous placement.
5. A bone flap is removed and replaced using an autograft to address infection and swelling.
6. A prosthetic skull plate is removed and replaced using an allograft due to overlying wound healing problems.
7. A patient undergoes the removal of a bone flap and replacement with a synthetic graft to address regrowth of a tumor.
8. A previously placed prosthetic plate is removed and replaced using another technique to address complications.
9. A bone flap is removed and replaced using a different technique to address overlying wound healing problems.
10. A patient requires the removal of a prosthetic skull plate and replacement with another technique due to infection and swelling.