How To Use CPT Code 64896

CPT 64896 describes the procedure of using a multiple strand nerve graft, also known as a cable, to repair a damaged nerve in the hand or foot that is longer than 4 cm. 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 64896?

CPT 64896 can be used to describe the procedure in which a multiple strand nerve graft, or cable, is utilized to repair a damaged nerve in the hand or foot that is longer than 4 cm. This code is used when the provider obtains the necessary graft and performs the repair to restore nerve function.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 64896 is: ‘Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), multiple strands (cable), hand or foot; more than 4 cm length.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing the patient for the procedure, ensuring they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. Next, the provider obtains a multiple strand nerve graft, specifically a cable, that is longer than 4 cm in length.
3. The graft is typically harvested from a sensory nerve, such as the sural nerve, superficial radial sensory nerve, or medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve.
4. To obtain the graft, the provider makes an incision posterior and superior to the lateral malleolus of the ankle and locates the sural nerve.
5. The desired length of nerve segment is then cut from the sural nerve, and the remaining proximal and distal nerve endings are sewn together to create the graft.
6. The provider then makes an incision over the site where the damaged nerve is located and repairs it by suturing the proximal and distal ends together using the graft.
7. Finally, the wound is closed by suturing the skin layers together.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 64896 is used when a provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft, or cable, that is longer than 4 cm in length. The procedure is typically performed on a damaged nerve in the hand or foot. The provider must ensure that the patient meets the necessary criteria for the procedure and that the graft material is obtained from an appropriate donor nerve.

5. When to use CPT code 64896

CPT code 64896 should be used when a provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft, or cable, that is longer than 4 cm in length. This code should be reported for each individual nerve graft procedure performed on a damaged nerve in the hand or foot.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 64896, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the nerve graft procedure
• Specific details of the nerve graft used, including the length and type of graft material
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incision site, nerve repair technique, and closure method
• Any additional relevant information, such as complications or follow-up plans
• Provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 64896, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for using a multiple strand nerve graft, or cable, that is longer 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. Additionally, consider any specific billing guidelines or requirements from the payer when submitting the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 64896 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 multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to repair a damaged nerve in the hand of a patient who experienced a traumatic injury.
2. A patient with a foot nerve injury undergoes a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to restore nerve function and improve mobility.
3. A provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to repair a damaged nerve in the hand of a patient with a congenital condition.
4. A patient with a foot nerve injury undergoes a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to alleviate pain and restore sensation.
5. A provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to repair a damaged nerve in the hand of a patient with a sports-related injury.
6. A patient with a foot nerve injury undergoes a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to regain motor function and improve balance.
7. A provider performs a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to repair a damaged nerve in the hand of a patient with a work-related injury.
8. A patient with a foot nerve injury undergoes a nerve graft procedure using a multiple strand nerve graft that is longer than 4 cm to restore sensation and improve overall foot function.