How To Use CPT Code 69717

CPT 69717 describes the replacement of a device in the skull that facilitates converting sound energy to be received by the inner ear. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 69717?

CPT 69717 can be used to describe the replacement of a device in the skull that helps in converting sound energy to be received by the inner ear. This code is used when the provider replaces the existing device with a new one, including the percutaneous attachment to an external speech processor.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 69717 is: ‘Replacement (including removal of existing device), osseointegrated implant, skull; with percutaneous attachment to external speech processor.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure by ensuring appropriate anesthesia and positioning.
2. An incision is made to allow for the replacement of the device in the skull.
3. The existing device, such as the abutment that extends through the skin, is removed.
4. The provider inspects the area and drills the bone to remove the osseointegrated implant.
5. A location for the new implant is determined, and an incision is made in the skull bone.
6. The provider prepares the area in the skull bone for the implant, either by drilling or using other tools.
7. The new implant is installed directly into the bone.
8. The surgical wounds are closed, leaving a small abutment exposed outside the skin.
9. A healing cap may be placed over the abutment to allow for later connection to an external speech processor.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible for CPT 69717 are those who require the replacement of a device in the skull for the treatment of hearing loss. The procedure involves the percutaneous attachment of the device to an external speech processor. The provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for the replacement. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 69717

CPT code 69717 should be used when the provider performs the replacement of a device in the skull with a percutaneous attachment to an external speech processor. This code should be used for each instance of the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 69717, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for device replacement
• Details of the procedure, including the removal of the existing device and the installation of the new implant
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Location of the new implant in the skull bone
• Use of a healing cap or other post-procedure measures
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 69717, ensure that the procedure involves the replacement of a device in the skull with a percutaneous attachment to an external speech processor. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines for reporting this procedure. Consider any additional codes that may be necessary to accurately represent the services provided.

8. Historical information

CPT 69717 has undergone historical changes. It was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. Since then, there have been revisions and updates to the code, including changes to the description and inclusion of additional details.

9. Examples

1. A patient with hearing loss undergoes the replacement of a device in the skull, with a percutaneous attachment to an external speech processor.
2. A provider performs the replacement of a device in the skull for a patient who experienced a malfunction in their existing implant.
3. A patient with a history of trauma to the skull requires the replacement of their osseointegrated implant for improved hearing.
4. A provider replaces the existing device in the skull for a patient who has experienced a change in their hearing needs.
5. A patient with a congenital hearing condition undergoes the replacement of their osseointegrated implant for better sound reception.
6. A provider performs the replacement of a device in the skull for a patient who has experienced a deterioration in their hearing abilities.
7. A patient with a previous infection in the skull requires the replacement of their osseointegrated implant for restored hearing.
8. A provider replaces the existing device in the skull for a patient who has experienced a change in their speech recognition abilities.
9. A patient with a history of chronic ear infections undergoes the replacement of their osseointegrated implant for improved hearing outcomes.
10. A provider performs the replacement of a device in the skull for a patient who has experienced a loss of sound localization.