How To Use CPT Code 89356

CPT 89356 describes the process of thawing cryopreserved oocytes, or egg cells, for a female patient. 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 89356?

CPT 89356 can be used to describe the thawing process of cryopreserved oocytes for a female patient. This code is used when a lab analyst performs the technical steps to thaw each aliquot, or sample, of the patient’s cryopreserved oocytes that have been stored for future use. The thawing process involves warming the aliquots to room temperature, washing them to remove cryopreservation fluid, and incubating them in a nutrient solution at body temperature in preparation for fertilization and transfer to the patient’s uterus.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 89356 is: ‘Thawing of cryopreserved; oocytes, each aliquot.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst retrieves each aliquot of cryopreserved oocytes from storage.
2. The aliquots are gradually thawed to room temperature to prevent damage from ice crystal formation.
3. The cryopreservation fluid is washed away from the oocytes.
4. The oocytes are incubated in a special nutrient solution at body temperature.
5. The thawed oocytes are then prepared for fertilization and transfer to the patient’s uterus.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 89356 is used for female patients who have cryopreserved oocytes stored for future use. This procedure may be ordered in a facility specializing in reproductive medicine and infertility treatments. It may be performed as part of cancer therapy, infertility surgery, or an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle.

5. When to use CPT code 89356

CPT code 89356 should be used when a lab analyst performs the thawing process for cryopreserved oocytes. It is important to note that if the thawed oocytes are cultured again for further growth and maturity, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 89356, the following documentation is required:

• Identification of the patient and the cryopreserved oocytes
• Date and time of the thawing procedure
• Details of the steps performed during the thawing process
• Any additional information relevant to the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 89356, ensure that the procedure is performed by a lab analyst and that the documentation requirements are met. It is important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. Additionally, consider whether CPT code 89356 should be reported with other codes based on the specific circumstances of the case.

8. Historical information

CPT 89356 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 performing the thawing process for cryopreserved oocytes of a female patient undergoing an IVF cycle.
2. A lab analyst thawing cryopreserved oocytes for a female patient who had previously undergone cancer therapy and is now ready for fertility treatment.
3. A lab analyst performing the thawing process for cryopreserved oocytes of a female patient undergoing infertility surgery.
4. A lab analyst thawing cryopreserved oocytes for a female patient as part of an egg donation process.
5. A lab analyst performing the thawing process for cryopreserved oocytes of a female patient who is preserving her fertility due to medical reasons.
6. A lab analyst thawing cryopreserved oocytes for a female patient as part of a reproductive medicine treatment plan.
7. A lab analyst performing the thawing process for cryopreserved oocytes of a female patient who is undergoing assisted reproductive technology.
8. A lab analyst thawing cryopreserved oocytes for a female patient who is using a gestational carrier for pregnancy.
9. A lab analyst performing the thawing process for cryopreserved oocytes of a female patient who is undergoing preimplantation genetic testing.
10. A lab analyst thawing cryopreserved oocytes for a female patient who is pursuing fertility preservation before undergoing medical treatments that may affect her fertility.