How To Use CPT Code 69726

CPT 69726 describes the removal of an osseointegrated implant from the skull, with percutaneous attachment to an external speech processor. 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 69726?

CPT 69726 can be used to describe the removal of an osseointegrated implant from the skull, specifically one that is coupled directly to an external speech processor percutaneously. This code is used when the entire implant is removed, including the closure of any wounds and the removal of any exposed abutments.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 69726 is: ‘Removal, entire osseointegrated implant, skull; with percutaneous attachment to external speech processor.’ This code does not include partial removal of the device, which should be reported using an appropriate evaluation and management code.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made to access the osseointegrated implant in the skull.
3. The provider uses specialized tools, such as a screwdriver or drill, to remove the entire implant.
4. The wounds are closed, including the debridement and closure of any channels that allowed an abutment to remain exposed outside the skin.
5. During the procedure, the provider may also remove any bony defects if necessary.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 69726 is used for patients who have an osseointegrated implant in the skull that requires removal. This procedure is typically performed to address hearing loss. The implant must be coupled directly to an external speech processor percutaneously. The size of the bony defect, if any, does not affect the use of this code.

5. When to use CPT code 69726

CPT code 69726 should be used when the provider performs the complete removal of an osseointegrated implant from the skull, including the closure of any wounds and the removal of any exposed abutments. This code should not be used for partial removal of the device, which should be reported using an appropriate evaluation and management code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 69726, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for implant removal
• Details of the procedure, including the date and start and end times
• Specific tools used during the procedure
• Closure of wounds and removal of any exposed abutments
• Any additional procedures performed, such as the removal of bony defects
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 69726, ensure that the provider performs the complete removal of the osseointegrated implant, including the closure of any wounds and the removal of any exposed abutments. This code should not be reported for partial removal of the device. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 69726 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 69726 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2022. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider removes an osseointegrated implant from the skull, including the closure of wounds and removal of any exposed abutments, for a patient with hearing loss.
2. During a procedure, a surgeon removes an osseointegrated implant that was coupled directly to an external speech processor percutaneously, ensuring the complete removal of the device.
3. A patient undergoes the removal of an osseointegrated implant from the skull, including the closure of wounds and removal of any exposed abutments, to address complications related to the implant.
4. A provider performs the removal of an osseointegrated implant, coupled directly to an external speech processor percutaneously, for a patient who no longer requires the device.
5. During a surgical procedure, a surgeon removes an osseointegrated implant from the skull, ensuring the complete removal of the device and closure of any wounds.
6. A patient undergoes the removal of an osseointegrated implant, including the closure of wounds and removal of any exposed abutments, to address an infection related to the implant.
7. A provider performs the complete removal of an osseointegrated implant from the skull, coupled directly to an external speech processor percutaneously, for a patient who experienced complications with the device.
8. During a surgical procedure, a surgeon removes an osseointegrated implant from the skull, ensuring the closure of wounds and removal of any exposed abutments, to address a malfunction of the device.
9. A patient undergoes the removal of an osseointegrated implant, including the closure of wounds and removal of any exposed abutments, as part of a planned revision surgery.
10. A provider performs the complete removal of an osseointegrated implant from the skull, coupled directly to an external speech processor percutaneously, for a patient who requested the removal of the device.