How To Use CPT Code 64744

CPT 64744 describes a procedure that involves the transection or avulsion of the greater occipital nerve to provide relief from head and neck pain caused by occipital neuralgia. 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 64744?

CPT 64744 is used to describe a procedure in which the provider severs or forcibly tears the greater occipital nerve to alleviate recurrent head and neck pain caused by occipital neuralgia. This condition involves inflammation or injury to the occipital nerves, which can result in debilitating pain.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 64744 is: ‘Transection or avulsion of the greater occipital nerve.’

3. Procedure

1. When performing CPT 64744, the provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. An incision is made in the back of the neck, and the provider continues dissecting down to expose the greater occipital nerve.
3. The provider then identifies the nerve and proceeds to free it by dividing or avulsing the nerve or a branch of the nerve causing the problem.
4. After completing the procedure, the provider closes the incision with sutures and applies appropriate dressings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 64744 is performed on patients experiencing recurrent head and neck pain due to occipital neuralgia. The procedure is indicated when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief, and the patient’s quality of life is significantly affected. It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed by a qualified healthcare professional with expertise in nerve transection or avulsion techniques.

5. When to use CPT code 64744

CPT code 64744 should be used when a provider performs the transection or avulsion of the greater occipital nerve to alleviate head and neck pain caused by occipital neuralgia. It is important to ensure that conservative treatments have been attempted and documented before resorting to this procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 64744, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of occipital neuralgia and the failure of conservative treatments
• Details of the procedure, including the approach used and any branches of the nerve transected or avulsed
• Date of the procedure
• Incision closure method and dressings applied
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 64744, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional with expertise in nerve transection or avulsion techniques. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers, if applicable, to accurately report the procedure. Additionally, consider any specific payer requirements or documentation requests to avoid claim denials or delays in reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 64744 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or revisions to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with occipital neuralgia undergoes CPT 64744 to relieve chronic head and neck pain that has not responded to conservative treatments.
2. A provider performs CPT 64744 on a patient who has been diagnosed with occipital neuralgia and experiences severe pain that significantly impacts their daily activities.
3. After failed attempts with medication and physical therapy, a patient with occipital neuralgia undergoes CPT 64744 to alleviate their debilitating head and neck pain.
4. A provider performs CPT 64744 on a patient with occipital neuralgia, aiming to improve their quality of life by reducing the intensity and frequency of head and neck pain.
5. Following a thorough evaluation and unsuccessful non-invasive treatments, a patient with occipital neuralgia undergoes CPT 64744 to address their chronic head and neck pain.
6. A provider performs CPT 64744 on a patient with occipital neuralgia, aiming to provide long-term relief from their recurrent head and neck pain.
7. After careful consideration and discussion of treatment options, a patient with occipital neuralgia decides to undergo CPT 64744 to alleviate their debilitating head and neck pain.
8. A provider performs CPT 64744 on a patient with occipital neuralgia, aiming to improve their overall well-being by reducing the severity and duration of head and neck pain episodes.
9. Following a comprehensive evaluation and unsuccessful attempts with conservative therapies, a patient with occipital neuralgia undergoes CPT 64744 to address their chronic head and neck pain.
10. A provider performs CPT 64744 on a patient with occipital neuralgia, aiming to restore their ability to engage in daily activities without the burden of persistent head and neck pain.