How To Use CPT Code 92546

CPT 92546 describes the sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing procedure used to measure various parameters of the vestibular system and estimate the patient’s visual acuity. 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 92546?

CPT 92546 can be used to describe the sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing procedure. This test measures various parameters of the vestibular system and estimates the patient’s visual acuity by checking the visual-vestibular interaction. It involves placing electrodes on the patient’s skin at eye level and forehead, and having the patient sit in a rotational chair in complete darkness. The chair is then rotated in a specific direction, and the eye movements are recorded and analyzed using a computer program.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 92546 is: ‘Sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing, which measures various parameters of normal and pathological vestibular systems and estimates the patient’s visual acuity by checking the visual-vestibular interaction.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is prepared for the test by placing electrodes over the skin at eye level and forehead.
2. The patient sits in a rotational chair in complete darkness.
3. The chair is controlled by a computer program and rotates in a specific direction.
4. The eye movements of the patient are recorded and analyzed using a computer program.
5. The physician analyzes the recordings to determine if there is an abnormal labyrinthine response on one side or the other.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 92546 is used for patients who require testing of their vestibular system and estimation of their visual acuity. This test is typically performed on patients with suspected vestibular disorders or those experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems. The test must be performed by a qualified healthcare professional and involves the use of a rotational chair and computer program for analysis.

5. When to use CPT code 92546

CPT code 92546 should be used when performing sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to measure various parameters of the vestibular system and estimate the patient’s visual acuity. This code is appropriate for patients who require this specific test to evaluate their vestibular function. It should not be used for other types of vestibular function tests or procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 92546, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s symptoms or suspected vestibular disorder
• Description of the sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing procedure
• Date and duration of the test
• Results of the test and any abnormal findings
• Analysis of the recordings and interpretation by the physician
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 92546, ensure that the test is performed using a rotational chair and a computer program for analysis. This code should not be reported in conjunction with CPT code 92270. It is important to check payer guidelines for specific billing requirements and to ensure accurate coding to avoid audit troubles.

8. Historical information

CPT 92546 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with recurrent episodes of vertigo undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to evaluate their vestibular function.
2. A patient with balance problems and suspected vestibular disorder undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to assess their vestibular system.
3. A patient with dizziness and visual disturbances undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to estimate their visual acuity and evaluate their vestibular function.
4. A patient with a history of head trauma and persistent dizziness undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to assess their vestibular system.
5. A patient with suspected vestibular migraine undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to evaluate their vestibular function and rule out other causes of their symptoms.
6. A patient with a known vestibular disorder undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to monitor the progression of their condition and assess treatment effectiveness.
7. A patient with unexplained balance problems undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to identify any abnormalities in their vestibular system.
8. A patient with a history of Meniere’s disease undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to assess the function of their vestibular system and monitor disease progression.
9. A patient with a suspected vestibular schwannoma undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to evaluate their vestibular function and assist in diagnosis.
10. A patient with persistent dizziness and no apparent cause undergoes sinusoidal vertical axis rotational testing to assess their vestibular system and identify any abnormalities.