How To Use CPT Code 64836

CPT 64836 describes the procedure of suturing the ulnar motor nerve, which is responsible for innervating various muscles in the hand and certain forearm muscles. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 64836?

CPT 64836 can be used to describe the procedure of suturing the ulnar motor nerve. This code is used when a provider repairs the damaged nerve by making an incision or working in an open wound to locate the nerve. The provider cleans the edges of the damaged nerve ends, aligns them, and sutures them together. The procedure typically involves placing sutures through the outer connective tissue around the nerve, known as the epineurium. The wound is then closed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 64836 is: ‘Suture of 1 nerve; ulnar motor.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and locates the ulnar motor nerve.
2. The provider cleans the edges of the damaged nerve ends.
3. The provider aligns the nerve endings.
4. The provider places sutures through the epineurium to connect the nerve endings.
5. Additional sutures may be placed depending on the size of the nerve.
6. The provider closes the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 64836 is used when the ulnar motor nerve requires suturing. This procedure is typically performed when there is damage to the nerve that needs repair. The ulnar motor nerve innervates many muscles in the hand and certain forearm muscles. The provider must assess the patient and determine the need for suturing the ulnar motor nerve.

5. When to use CPT code 64836

CPT code 64836 should be used when a provider performs the procedure of suturing the ulnar motor nerve. It is appropriate to bill this code when the provider repairs the damaged nerve by suturing the nerve endings together. This code should not be used for any other nerve suturing procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 64836, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for ulnar motor nerve suturing
• Details of the procedure, including the location of the incision or wound
• Description of the nerve damage and the steps taken to repair it
• Number of sutures placed and any additional procedures performed
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 64836, ensure that the procedure performed is specifically the suturing of the ulnar motor nerve. This code should not be reported with other nerve suturing codes. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers when submitting the claim for reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 64836 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been a few changes to the code over the years, including updates to the code description and terminology.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon suturing the ulnar motor nerve of a patient with a hand injury.
2. An orthopedic specialist repairing the ulnar motor nerve of a patient with forearm muscle weakness.
3. A neurosurgeon performing ulnar motor nerve suturing for a patient with nerve damage due to trauma.
4. A plastic surgeon suturing the ulnar motor nerve of a patient undergoing hand reconstruction surgery.
5. An attending physician repairing the ulnar motor nerve of a patient with a laceration in the hand.
6. A hand surgeon performing ulnar motor nerve suturing for a patient with nerve compression syndrome.
7. A neurologist suturing the ulnar motor nerve of a patient with muscle atrophy in the hand.
8. An attending physician repairing the ulnar motor nerve of a patient with a crush injury to the forearm.
9. A plastic surgeon performing ulnar motor nerve suturing for a patient with nerve damage from a previous surgery.
10. An orthopedic specialist suturing the ulnar motor nerve of a patient with a sports-related hand injury.