How To Use CPT Code 67570

CPT 67570 describes a procedure known as optic nerve decompression, which involves reducing pressure on the optic nerve by creating an incision or fenestration in the sheath covering the nerve. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 67570?

CPT 67570 can be used to describe a procedure in which a healthcare provider reduces pressure on the optic nerve by incising or creating a window in the sheath covering the nerve. This procedure is typically performed to alleviate excessive pressure on the optic nerve caused by conditions such as glaucoma, which can lead to blindness if left untreated.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 67570 is: ‘Optic nerve decompression (eg, incision or fenestration of optic nerve sheath).’ This code specifically refers to the surgical procedure performed to reduce pressure on the optic nerve.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient.
2. Using microsurgical techniques, the provider makes an incision in the conjunctiva of the affected eye.
3. The provider detaches the muscles that hold the eye in place and rotates the globe to access the optic nerve.
4. Multiple small incisions or fenestrations are made in the optic nerve sheath using a sharp blade, allowing fluid to drain freely and reducing pressure on the optic nerve.
5. The provider then incises through arachnoid trabeculations, which are tiny fibers that trap cerebrospinal fluid and contribute to the pressure on the optic nerve.
6. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, any instruments are removed, and the incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 67570 is typically performed on patients with conditions such as glaucoma, where excessive pressure on the optic nerve can lead to vision loss or blindness. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider using microsurgical techniques to reduce pressure on the optic nerve by creating an incision or fenestration in the sheath covering the nerve.

5. When to use CPT code 67570

CPT code 67570 should be used when a healthcare provider performs optic nerve decompression by incising or fenestrating the optic nerve sheath. This code is appropriate for reporting the procedure and should be used when the specific criteria for the code are met.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 67570, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for optic nerve decompression
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific incisions or fenestrations made
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Post-procedure instructions or recommendations
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 67570, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the procedure and any associated services provided. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from insurance payers regarding the use of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 67570 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1992. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs optic nerve decompression by creating an incision in the optic nerve sheath to alleviate pressure on the nerve in a patient with glaucoma.
2. Using microsurgical techniques, a provider fenestrates the optic nerve sheath to reduce pressure on the optic nerve in a patient with increased intracranial pressure.
3. A surgeon performs optic nerve decompression by making multiple small incisions in the optic nerve sheath to relieve pressure on the nerve in a patient with optic neuritis.
4. During a surgical procedure, a provider creates a window in the optic nerve sheath to alleviate pressure on the optic nerve in a patient with a tumor.
5. A healthcare provider performs optic nerve decompression by incising the optic nerve sheath to reduce pressure on the nerve in a patient with traumatic optic neuropathy.
6. In a surgical setting, a provider fenestrates the optic nerve sheath to alleviate pressure on the optic nerve in a patient with idiopathic intracranial hypertension.
7. A surgeon performs optic nerve decompression by creating an incision in the optic nerve sheath to relieve pressure on the nerve in a patient with optic disc edema.
8. Using microsurgical techniques, a provider fenestrates the optic nerve sheath to reduce pressure on the optic nerve in a patient with optic nerve glioma.
9. A healthcare provider performs optic nerve decompression by making multiple small incisions in the optic nerve sheath to alleviate pressure on the nerve in a patient with optic neuropathy.
10. During a surgical procedure, a provider creates a window in the optic nerve sheath to reduce pressure on the optic nerve in a patient with optic nerve head drusen.