How To Use CPT Code 64893

CPT 64893 describes the procedure of using a single strand nerve graft, measuring more than 4 cm in length, to repair or bridge an injured portion of a nerve in the arm or leg. 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 64893?

CPT 64893 can be used to describe the procedure in which a provider utilizes a single strand nerve graft, measuring more than 4 cm in length, to repair or bridge an injured portion of a nerve in the arm or leg. This code is specifically used when the nerve graft is longer than 4 cm.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 64893 is: ‘Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), single strand, arm or leg; more than 4 cm length.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the provider first prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Next, the provider obtains a nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm in length. This graft is typically taken from a sensory nerve, such as the sural nerve, superficial radial sensory nerve, or medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve.
3. The provider makes an incision posterior and superior to the lateral malleolus of the ankle to harvest the sural nerve graft.
4. Once the sural nerve is located, the provider cuts the desired length of nerve segment to be used as a graft.
5. The provider then sews together the remaining proximal and distal nerve endings of the sural nerve and closes the donor site by suturing the skin layers together.
6. Next, the provider makes an incision over the site where the damaged nerve is present.
7. The damaged nerve is located and repaired by suturing the proximal and distal ends together using the nerve graft.
8. Finally, the provider closes the wound by suturing the skin layers together.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 64893 is used when a provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft that measures more than 4 cm in length. The procedure is typically performed on nerves in the arm or leg that have been injured and require repair or bridging. The nerve graft is obtained from an unrelated nerve, such as the sural nerve, and is used to restore function and promote healing in the damaged nerve.

5. When to use CPT code 64893

CPT code 64893 should be used when a provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft that measures more than 4 cm in length. This code is appropriate when the nerve graft is used to repair or bridge an injured portion of a nerve in the arm or leg. It is important to ensure that the length of the nerve graft meets the criteria of being longer than 4 cm.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 64893, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for nerve graft procedure
• Specific details of the nerve graft used, including the length and type of nerve
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incisions made, nerve repair process, and closure of the wound
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 64893, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria of using a single strand nerve graft that measures more than 4 cm in length. It is important to note that the harvesting of the nerve graft should not be reported separately, as it is included in the code. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 64893 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 64893 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft measuring more than 4 cm in length to repair a damaged nerve in the arm of a patient who suffered a traumatic injury.
2. A patient with a leg injury undergoes a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft measuring more than 4 cm in length to bridge a gap in a damaged nerve, allowing for proper nerve regeneration and function.
3. A provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft measuring more than 4 cm in length to repair a severed nerve in the arm of a patient who underwent a surgical procedure.
4. A patient with a leg injury undergoes a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft measuring more than 4 cm in length to restore sensation and function in the damaged nerve.
5. A provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft measuring more than 4 cm in length to repair a damaged nerve in the arm of a patient with a chronic condition.
6. A patient with a leg injury undergoes a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft measuring more than 4 cm in length to improve motor function and sensation in the damaged nerve.
7. A provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a single strand graft measuring more than 4 cm in length to repair a damaged nerve in the arm of a patient who experienced nerve damage due to a medical condition.