How To Use CPT Code 92518

CPT 92518 describes the vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing procedure, which measures the patient’s response to high-level acoustic stimuli using electrodes placed near the eye. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 92518?

CPT 92518 is used to describe the vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing procedure. This procedure measures the patient’s response to high-level acoustic stimuli by placing electrodes near the eye to assess the function of the otolith and vestibular nerve. The provider will interpret the results and provide a report. It is important to note that CPT 92518 should not be reported in conjunction with codes 92270, 92517, or 92519.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 92518 is: ‘Vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing, with interpretation and report; ocular (oVEMP).’ This code specifically refers to the testing of the ocular muscles using VEMP.

3. Procedure

1. During the VEMP testing procedure, the provider will measure the patient’s response to high-level acoustic stimuli.
2. Electrodes will be placed near the eye to detect sound evoked potentials.
3. The patient may be instructed to contract the inferior oblique muscle by looking up.
4. A loud sound from an inserted earphone will stimulate the saccule, activating the inferior vestibular nerves.
5. The provider will monitor the recordings, interpret the results, and provide a report on the patient’s response.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 92518 is used to evaluate diseases of the ear and vestibular system. It is a neurophysiologic diagnostic test that assesses the function of the otolith and vestibular nerve. The provider places surface electrodes under the eye to detect sound evoked potentials. This test is helpful in the evaluation of suspected auditory and balance or dizziness disorders.

5. When to use CPT code 92518

CPT code 92518 should be used when performing ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) testing. It is appropriate to bill this code when evaluating diseases of the ear and vestibular system, and when assessing auditory and balance or dizziness disorders. However, it should not be reported in conjunction with codes 92270, 92517, or 92519.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 92518, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s symptoms or suspected auditory and balance or dizziness disorders
• Details of the VEMP testing procedure, including the use of electrodes near the eye
• Date and time of the testing
• Results of the testing and interpretation
• Report on the patient’s response to the high-level acoustic stimuli
• Signature of the provider performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 92518, ensure that the procedure involves ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) testing. It should not be reported in conjunction with codes 92270, 92517, or 92519. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and use appropriate modifiers if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 92518 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2021. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with suspected Meniere’s disease undergoes ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) testing to assess the function of the otolith and vestibular nerve.
2. A patient experiencing dizziness and balance issues undergoes VEMP testing to evaluate the function of their inner ear and vestibular system.
3. A provider performs ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) testing on a patient with a history of head trauma to assess their vestibular function.
4. A patient with recurrent vertigo undergoes VEMP testing to help diagnose the cause of their symptoms.
5. A provider uses ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) testing to evaluate a patient with suspected vestibular migraine.
6. A patient with a history of noise-induced hearing loss undergoes VEMP testing to assess the function of their otolith and vestibular nerve.
7. A provider performs ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) testing on a patient with suspected superior canal dehiscence syndrome.
8. A patient with balance issues and a history of ear infections undergoes VEMP testing to evaluate their vestibular function.
9. A provider uses ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) testing to assess the function of the otolith and vestibular nerve in a patient with suspected vestibular schwannoma.
10. A patient with persistent dizziness and unexplained falls undergoes VEMP testing to help determine the cause of their symptoms.