How To Use CPT Code 62200

CPT 62200 describes the procedure known as ventriculocisternostomy, specifically targeting the third ventricle of the brain. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 62200, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 62200?

CPT 62200 is a code used to describe the ventriculocisternostomy procedure, which involves creating an artificial opening in the floor of the third ventricle of the brain to allow cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to drain into the cisterna magna. This procedure is typically performed to treat hydrocephalus, specifically noncommunicating hydrocephalus, where there is an obstruction in the flow of CSF.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62200 is: ‘Ventriculocisternostomy, third ventricle.’

3. Procedure

1. The procedure begins with the patient being appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision in the front of the scalp and retracts the scalp to expose the skull.
3. A section of the skull, known as a bone flap, is removed by creating one or more burr holes using a surgical drill.
4. The provider lifts and removes the bone flap to expose the dura, the outer protective covering of the brain.
5. The dura is opened, and an incision is made down to the cortex below.
6. A tract is created to gain access to the lateral ventricle.
7. Once inside the ventricular compartment, the provider identifies and enters the foramen of Monro, which connects the third ventricle with the lateral ventricles.
8. Carefully puncturing the floor of the third ventricle, the provider creates an opening to allow CSF to drain into the cisternal space.
9. The patency of the opening is ensured, and if necessary, a ventricular catheter or shunt may be inserted to facilitate drainage.
10. After achieving hemostasis and removing all instrumentation, the cerebral membranes are closed, the bone flap is replaced and secured, and the scalp is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62200 is performed to treat hydrocephalus, particularly noncommunicating hydrocephalus, where there is an obstruction in the flow of CSF. This procedure is typically reserved for patients who require an artificial opening in the third ventricle to allow CSF to drain into the cisterna magna. It is important to note that the procedure should only be performed by a qualified healthcare professional with the necessary expertise and training.

5. When to use CPT code 62200

CPT code 62200 should be used when a ventriculocisternostomy procedure is performed on the third ventricle of the brain. It is important to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and meets the specific criteria for this code. It is recommended to review the patient’s medical records and consult with the healthcare professional to determine if CPT 62200 is the appropriate code to use.

6. Documentation requirements

Documentation for CPT 62200 should include:

• Medical necessity for the procedure
• Description of the procedure performed
• Details of the incision, removal of bone flap, and opening of the dura
• Confirmation of the creation of an opening in the floor of the third ventricle
• Documentation of any additional procedures performed, such as the insertion of a ventricular catheter or shunt
• Confirmation of hemostasis and closure of cerebral membranes, bone flap, and scalp

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62200, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It should be reported with the appropriate diagnosis codes that support the medical necessity of the procedure. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance carriers or regulatory bodies. It is recommended to consult with the billing department or a coding specialist to ensure accurate and appropriate billing for CPT 62200.

8. Historical information

CPT code 62200 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2010, with an updated description. Additionally, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A patient with noncommunicating hydrocephalus undergoes a ventriculocisternostomy procedure on the third ventricle to allow CSF to drain into the cisterna magna.
2. A healthcare professional performs a ventriculocisternostomy on a patient with hydrocephalus caused by an obstruction in the third ventricle.
3. During a surgical procedure, a ventriculocisternostomy is performed on the third ventricle to alleviate the buildup of CSF in a patient with hydrocephalus.
4. A qualified provider performs a ventriculocisternostomy on the third ventricle of a patient’s brain to treat noncommunicating hydrocephalus.
5. A ventriculocisternostomy procedure is performed on the third ventricle of a patient with hydrocephalus to create an artificial opening for CSF drainage.
6. In a neurosurgical setting, a ventriculocisternostomy is performed on the third ventricle to treat a patient with noncommunicating hydrocephalus.
7. A patient with obstructive hydrocephalus undergoes a ventriculocisternostomy procedure targeting the third ventricle to allow for the drainage of CSF.