How To Use CPT Code 64771

CPT 64771 describes the transection or avulsion of other cranial nerves that are not listed elsewhere within the CPT®. 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 64771?

CPT 64771 can be used to describe the surgical procedure in which the provider severs or removes other cranial nerves that are not listed elsewhere within the CPT®. This code is used when the provider incises the face or neck in the location of the other cranial nerve, identifies and divides or removes the nerve, and then closes the tissue and the skin.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 64771 is: ‘Transection or avulsion of other cranial nerve, extradural.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the face or neck at the location of the other cranial nerve.
3. The provider carefully dissects the tissue to locate and identify the other cranial nerve.
4. The nerve is then divided or removed through transection or avulsion.
5. The provider closes the tissue and the skin to complete the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible for CPT 64771 are those who require the transection or avulsion of other cranial nerves that are not listed elsewhere within the CPT®. This procedure may be necessary for various medical conditions or as part of a treatment plan determined by the provider. The provider must carefully assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for this specific surgical intervention.

5. When to use CPT code 64771

CPT code 64771 should be used when the provider performs the transection or avulsion of other cranial nerves that are not listed elsewhere within the CPT®. It is important to accurately document the specific nerve involved and the reason for the procedure in the patient’s medical record.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 64771, the provider must document the following information:

• The specific cranial nerve transected or avulsed
• The reason for the procedure and the patient’s medical condition
• The date and duration of the procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Post-operative care instructions and follow-up plans

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 64771, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the specific cranial nerve involved and the reason for the transection or avulsion. CPT code 64771 should not be reported with other codes unless there are distinct and separate procedures performed. It is crucial to review the payer’s guidelines and policies to ensure proper billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 64771 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the transection of an extradural cranial nerve to treat a patient with severe facial pain.
2. A patient undergoes the avulsion of an extradural cranial nerve to address a debilitating neurological condition.
3. A provider performs the transection of an extradural cranial nerve to alleviate symptoms associated with a specific medical condition.
4. An avulsion of an extradural cranial nerve is performed to treat a patient with a rare cranial nerve disorder.
5. A provider performs the transection of an extradural cranial nerve as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient with a complex medical condition.
6. The avulsion of an extradural cranial nerve is performed to address a patient’s chronic pain that is unresponsive to other treatments.
7. A provider performs the transection of an extradural cranial nerve to improve the quality of life for a patient with a debilitating neurological disorder.
8. An avulsion of an extradural cranial nerve is performed to address a patient’s facial paralysis caused by a specific medical condition.
9. A provider performs the transection of an extradural cranial nerve to alleviate symptoms associated with a rare cranial nerve disorder.
10. An avulsion of an extradural cranial nerve is performed to treat a patient with a complex medical condition that affects multiple cranial nerves.