How To Use CPT Code 64712

CPT 64712 describes a procedure known as neuroplasty, which involves the open exploration and decompression of the sciatic nerve in the leg. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 64712, 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 64712?

CPT 64712 is a code used to describe a specific surgical procedure called neuroplasty. This procedure involves the open exploration and decompression of the sciatic nerve, which is a major peripheral nerve located in the leg. Neuroplasty is performed to relieve tension on the compressed nerve by incising scar tissue or other sources of pressure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 64712 is: ‘Neuroplasty, major peripheral nerve, arm or leg, open; sciatic nerve.’ This code specifically refers to the open exploration and decompression of the sciatic nerve in the leg.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider makes an incision into the leg at the target site where the compressed sciatic nerve is located.
2. The provider then locates the compressed nerve and performs external neurolysis, which involves cutting down the surrounding scar tissue and soft tissues without entering into the nerve.
3. If necessary, the provider may also remove any bone spurs or damaged muscle that may be putting pressure on the nerve.
4. After freeing the nerve and ensuring that the compression is relieved, the provider closes the incision in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 64712 is typically performed on patients who have a compressed sciatic nerve in their leg. This compression may be caused by scar tissue, soft tissue, bone spurs, or damaged muscle. The procedure is intended to relieve the tension on the nerve and alleviate symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the leg. It is important to note that this procedure is performed by a healthcare provider who is qualified to perform neuroplasty.

5. When to use CPT code 64712

CPT code 64712 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an open neuroplasty procedure specifically on the sciatic nerve in the leg. This code is used to report the exploration and decompression of the nerve to relieve compression and alleviate symptoms. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description provided by CPT code 64712.

6. Documentation requirements

When reporting CPT code 64712, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for neuroplasty
• Specific details of the procedure performed, including the location of the incision and the extent of the exploration and decompression
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 64712, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description provided by the code. The healthcare provider should also follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. It is important to note that CPT code 64712 should not be reported with other codes that describe similar procedures on different nerves or plexuses. Additional tips for reporting CPT code 64712 may be provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 64712 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes open neuroplasty of the sciatic nerve in their leg to relieve compression and alleviate symptoms of pain and numbness.
2. A healthcare provider performs neuroplasty on the sciatic nerve of a patient with a history of trauma to the leg, aiming to restore normal nerve function.
3. During a surgical procedure, a provider identifies compression of the sciatic nerve and performs neuroplasty to relieve the pressure and improve the patient’s symptoms.
4. A patient with chronic leg pain undergoes open neuroplasty of the sciatic nerve to address the underlying cause of their symptoms.
5. A healthcare provider performs neuroplasty on the sciatic nerve of a patient with a known history of sciatic nerve entrapment, aiming to alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
6. During a surgical procedure, a provider identifies scar tissue causing compression of the sciatic nerve and performs neuroplasty to release the nerve and restore normal function.
7. A patient with persistent leg weakness undergoes open neuroplasty of the sciatic nerve to relieve compression and improve their muscle strength.
8. A healthcare provider performs neuroplasty on the sciatic nerve of a patient with chronic leg numbness, aiming to restore normal sensation.
9. During a surgical procedure, a provider identifies a bone spur causing compression of the sciatic nerve and performs neuroplasty to remove the spur and relieve the pressure on the nerve.
10. A patient with radiating leg pain undergoes open neuroplasty of the sciatic nerve to address the underlying cause of their symptoms and improve their overall function.