How To Use CPT Code 62360

CPT 62360 describes the implantation or replacement of a subcutaneous reservoir for intrathecal or epidural drug infusion. 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 62360?

CPT 62360 can be used to describe the procedure of implanting or replacing a subcutaneous reservoir for the infusion of medications into the intrathecal or epidural space. This code is used when a provider places a drug reservoir under the patient’s skin, typically in the abdomen, to administer medications such as anesthetics, antispasmodics, opioids, steroids, and other solutions for pain management and chemotherapy.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62360 is: ‘Implantation or replacement of device for intrathecal or epidural drug infusion; subcutaneous reservoir.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision at the placement site, typically in the abdomen.
2. If it is an initial implant, the provider creates a pocket in the deep subcutaneous tissue and places a reservoir into the pocket.
3. A tunneling device is used to create a subcutaneous tunnel between the reservoir and the spinal incision.
4. A spinal catheter is attached to the tunneling device with a suture and pulled through the subcutaneous tunnel to the reservoir.
5. The provider verifies the catheter patency and connects the catheter to the reservoir, securing it with sutures.
6. If replacing an existing reservoir, the provider reopens the scar from the previous placement procedure, removes the old reservoir, and replaces it with a new one.
7. The existing implanted catheter is attached to the new reservoir and secured with sutures.
8. The wound is irrigated, closed, and dressed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62360 is performed when a subcutaneous reservoir is implanted or replaced for the infusion of medications into the intrathecal or epidural space. This procedure is typically done to treat pain or administer chemotherapy. The patient must have a medical need for intrathecal or epidural drug infusion, and the provider must use a subcutaneous reservoir for the administration of medications.

5. When to use CPT code 62360

CPT code 62360 should be used when a provider performs the implantation or replacement of a subcutaneous reservoir for intrathecal or epidural drug infusion. This code is appropriate when the procedure involves the placement of a reservoir and the administration of medications through a tunneled catheter into the intrathecal or epidural space. It should not be used for other types of drug infusion procedures or when a different device is used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 62360, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and the medical necessity of intrathecal or epidural drug infusion
• Details of the procedure, including the placement site, creation of a pocket (if applicable), tunneling of the catheter, connection to the reservoir, and closure of the wound
• Type and dosage of medications infused through the reservoir
• Any complications or adverse events encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62360, ensure that the procedure involves the implantation or replacement of a subcutaneous reservoir for intrathecal or epidural drug infusion. Use this code only when a reservoir is used, and not for other types of drug infusion procedures. It is important to follow the specific guidelines and requirements of the payer when submitting the claim for reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 62360 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1996. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider implants a subcutaneous reservoir for the intrathecal infusion of pain medications in a patient with chronic back pain.
2. A provider replaces a subcutaneous reservoir for the epidural infusion of chemotherapy drugs in a patient with cancer.
3. A provider implants a subcutaneous reservoir for the intrathecal infusion of antispasmodic medications in a patient with spasticity.
4. A provider replaces a subcutaneous reservoir for the epidural infusion of steroids in a patient with inflammation of the spinal cord.
5. A provider implants a subcutaneous reservoir for the intrathecal infusion of opioids in a patient with intractable pain.
6. A provider replaces a subcutaneous reservoir for the epidural infusion of anesthetics in a patient undergoing surgery.
7. A provider implants a subcutaneous reservoir for the intrathecal infusion of medications to manage symptoms in a patient with multiple sclerosis.
8. A provider replaces a subcutaneous reservoir for the epidural infusion of pain medications in a patient with failed back surgery syndrome.
9. A provider implants a subcutaneous reservoir for the intrathecal infusion of opioids in a patient with cancer-related pain.
10. A provider replaces a subcutaneous reservoir for the epidural infusion of steroids in a patient with spinal stenosis.