How To Use CPT Code 89354

CPT 89354 describes the process of thawing cryopreserved testicular or ovarian reproductive tissue. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 89354?

CPT 89354 can be used to describe the thawing of cryopreserved testicular or ovarian reproductive tissue. This code is used when a lab analyst performs the technical steps to thaw the tissue that has been stored for future use. The process may include warming the tissue to room temperature, washing it to remove cryopreservation fluid, and incubating it in a nutrient solution before extracting sperm or eggs.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 89354 is: ‘Thawing of cryopreserved; reproductive tissue, testicular/ovarian.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to thaw cryopreserved testicular or ovarian reproductive tissue.
2. This may involve warming the tissue to room temperature, washing it to remove cryopreservation fluid, and incubating it in a nutrient solution.
3. The tissue is gradually thawed to prevent damage from ice crystal formation.
4. After thawing, the sperm or eggs can be extracted from the tissue for further use.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 89354 is typically used in facilities specializing in reproductive medicine and infertility treatments. It may be ordered by clinicians for patients undergoing cancer therapy, infertility surgery, vasectomy, or as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle. The code is specific to the thawing of cryopreserved testicular or ovarian tissue.

5. When to use CPT code 89354

CPT code 89354 should be used when a lab analyst performs the thawing of cryopreserved testicular or ovarian reproductive tissue. It should not be used for cryopreservation or storage of the tissue. Other codes are available for those services (89335 for cryopreservation and 89344 for storage).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 89354, documentation should include:

• Indication of the need for thawing cryopreserved reproductive tissue
• Details of the technical steps performed, such as warming, washing, and incubating the tissue
• Date and time of the thawing procedure
• Any additional information relevant to the specific case

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 89354, ensure that the service is performed by a lab analyst and that the thawing process is documented. It is important to note that CPT 89354 is for the thawing procedure only and should not be reported with codes for cryopreservation or storage. It is also important to use the appropriate diagnosis codes to support medical necessity.

8. Historical information

CPT 89354 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2004. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst thaws cryopreserved testicular tissue for a patient undergoing cancer therapy.
2. A lab analyst performs the thawing of cryopreserved ovarian tissue for a patient undergoing infertility surgery.
3. During an IVF cycle, a lab analyst thaws cryopreserved testicular tissue for a patient.
4. A lab analyst thaws cryopreserved ovarian tissue for a patient who will undergo a vasectomy.
5. For a patient undergoing in vitro fertilization, a lab analyst thaws cryopreserved testicular tissue.
6. A lab analyst performs the thawing of cryopreserved ovarian tissue for a patient undergoing infertility treatments.
7. During an IVF cycle, a lab analyst thaws cryopreserved testicular tissue for a patient.
8. A lab analyst thaws cryopreserved ovarian tissue for a patient who will undergo infertility surgery.
9. For a patient undergoing in vitro fertilization, a lab analyst thaws cryopreserved testicular tissue.
10. A lab analyst performs the thawing of cryopreserved ovarian tissue for a patient undergoing cancer therapy.