How To Use CPT Code 69222

CPT 69222 describes the complex debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity, which involves the removal of damaged or unhealthy tissue from the cavity left after a mastoidectomy procedure. 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 69222?

CPT 69222 is used to describe the extensive debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity, which involves the removal of a large amount of granulation tissue from the cavity. This procedure may require anesthesia or more extensive cleaning than a routine debridement. It is typically performed when the cavity needs to be thoroughly cleaned and prepared for healing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 69222 is: ‘Debridement, mastoidectomy cavity, complex (eg, with anesthesia or more than routine cleaning).’ This code should be reported with modifier 50 for a bilateral procedure.

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a postoperative removal of a large amount of granulation tissue from the mastoidectomy cavity.
2. The cavity and the external auditory canal are irrigated with normal saline.
3. Antibiotic drops are instilled in the bony cavity.
4. A dressing is applied to the cavity.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 69222 is used when the debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity requires anesthesia or more extensive cleaning than a routine debridement. This procedure is typically performed when there is a significant amount of granulation tissue that needs to be removed from the cavity to promote healing.

5. When to use CPT code 69222

CPT code 69222 should be used when the provider performs a complex debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity, which involves anesthesia or more than routine cleaning. It should not be used for routine cleaning and debridement of the cavity, which is described by CPT code 69220.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 69222, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity
• Extent of the debridement performed, including the amount of granulation tissue removed
• Use of anesthesia or more than routine cleaning
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the debridement

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 69222, ensure that the debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity meets the criteria for a complex procedure, such as the use of anesthesia or more than routine cleaning. Modifier 50 should be appended to the code for a bilateral procedure. It is important to note that CPT code 69222 should not be reported if CPT codes 69266 to 69268 have already been performed in the previous seven days.

8. Historical information

CPT 69222 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 patient undergoes a mastoidectomy procedure, and the provider performs a complex debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity to remove a significant amount of granulation tissue.
2. Following a mastoidectomy, the provider performs an extensive cleaning of the cavity, including the removal of damaged tissue and irrigation with normal saline.
3. A patient requires a bilateral debridement of the mastoidectomy cavities, and the provider performs the procedure with anesthesia.
4. After a mastoidectomy, the provider performs a complex debridement of the cavity, removing a large amount of granulation tissue to promote healing.
5. A patient undergoes a mastoidectomy, and the provider performs a thorough cleaning of the cavity, including the removal of excessive granulation tissue.
6. Following a mastoidectomy, the provider performs a complex debridement of the cavity, ensuring the removal of all unhealthy tissue and promoting proper healing.
7. A patient requires a complex debridement of the mastoidectomy cavity, and the provider performs the procedure with anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
8. After a mastoidectomy, the provider performs a comprehensive cleaning of the cavity, removing any remaining granulation tissue and promoting optimal healing.
9. A patient undergoes a bilateral mastoidectomy, and the provider performs a complex debridement of both cavities to remove excessive granulation tissue.
10. Following a mastoidectomy, the provider performs a meticulous cleaning of the cavity, ensuring the removal of all unhealthy tissue and promoting proper healing.