How To Use CPT Code 62252

CPT 62252 describes the reprogramming of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system, which allows for noninvasive adjustments to correct over or under drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). 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 62252?

CPT 62252 can be used to describe the reprogramming of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system. This procedure involves adjusting the pressure setting of the shunt using a magnetic field transmitted through the skin. The provider uses an external programming device to adjust the setting until an acceptable CSF flow level is achieved. An X-ray is then used to verify the valve position of the shunt. This code is used for routine office visits where the reprogramming of the shunt is performed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62252 is: ‘Reprogramming of programmable cerebrospinal shunt.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider uses a magnetic field transmitted through the skin to adjust the pressure setting of the programmable cerebrospinal shunt.
2. An external programming device is placed over the skin above the shunt to make the necessary adjustments.
3. The provider sets the shunt to achieve an acceptable cerebrospinal fluid flow level, with higher settings resulting in less fluid drainage and lower settings resulting in more fluid drainage.
4. An X-ray is used to visualize the valve position of the shunt and verify the setting.
5. Once the pressure setting is confirmed, the patient is released from the office or radiology department.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62252 is performed when a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system needs to be reprogrammed to correct over or under drainage of cerebrospinal fluid. This procedure is typically performed during routine office visits. The provider must use an external programming device and adjust the pressure setting until an acceptable CSF flow level is achieved. The reprogramming is done using a magnetic field transmitted through the skin.

5. When to use CPT code 62252

CPT code 62252 should be used when a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system needs to be reprogrammed during a routine office visit. This code is specifically for the reprogramming procedure and should not be used for initial placement or removal of the shunt. It is important to ensure that the reprogramming is performed using a magnetic field transmitted through the skin and that the provider uses an external programming device to make the necessary adjustments.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 62252, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the reprogramming of the programmable cerebrospinal shunt
• Details of the adjustments made to the pressure setting using the external programming device
• Date and duration of the reprogramming procedure
• Verification of the valve position using an X-ray
• Confirmation of the pressure setting and any additional instructions given to the patient
• Signature of the provider performing the reprogramming

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62252, ensure that the reprogramming of the programmable cerebrospinal shunt is performed during a routine office visit. The procedure should be documented and supported by the necessary documentation requirements. It is important to note that an evaluation and management (E&M) service may be separately billable if the decision to reprogram the shunt is made as a result of the E&M service. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 62252 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A neurosurgeon reprograms a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system during a routine office visit for a patient with hydrocephalus.
2. A pediatrician adjusts the pressure setting of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system using an external programming device during a follow-up appointment for a child with hydrocephalus.
3. A neurologist verifies the valve position of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system using an X-ray after reprogramming the pressure setting during a routine office visit for a patient with hydrocephalus.
4. A neurosurgeon releases a patient from the radiology department after confirming the pressure setting of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system using an X-ray and reprogramming it during a routine office visit.
5. A pediatrician uses a magnetic field transmitted through the skin to adjust the pressure setting of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system during a follow-up appointment for a child with hydrocephalus.
6. A neurologist documents the adjustments made to the pressure setting of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system using an external programming device during a routine office visit for a patient with hydrocephalus.
7. A neurosurgeon reprograms a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system to correct over drainage of cerebrospinal fluid during a routine office visit for a patient with hydrocephalus.
8. A pediatrician verifies the valve position of a programmable cerebrospinal shunt system using an X-ray after reprogramming the pressure setting during a follow-up appointment for a child with hydrocephalus.