How To Use CPT Code 92558

CPT 92558 describes the screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions, which is a qualitative measurement of distortion product or transient evoked otoacoustic emissions. 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 92558?

CPT 92558 is used to describe the screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions, which involves the measurement of distortion product or transient evoked otoacoustic emissions. This procedure is typically performed on newborn babies and small children who are unable to cooperate with other hearing tests. The provider passes low-intensity sounds through the ear and measures the reflected sound to analyze hearing deficiencies. The results of this screening can help identify potential hearing problems in young patients.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 92558 is: ‘Evoked otoacoustic emissions, screening (qualitative measurement of distortion product or transient evoked otoacoustic emissions), automated analysis.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider places a probe containing a speaker into the middle ear of the patient.
2. A series of low-intensity sounds, such as repeated clicking sounds or two tones at different frequencies, are passed through the ear.
3. The sound waves travel through the tympanic membrane, middle ear, and inner ear.
4. The cochlea, a structure in the inner ear responsible for hearing, reflects the sound waves back in the form of low-intensity sound waves.
5. A digital microphone captures the reflected waves.
6. The provider uses signal-averaging methodology to process the reflected waves, distinguishing them from background noise.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 92558 is typically performed on newborn babies and small children who are not able to cooperate with other hearing tests. It is used to screen for potential hearing deficiencies by measuring distortion product or transient evoked otoacoustic emissions. The procedure is performed by a provider who has the necessary equipment and expertise to conduct the screening and analyze the results.

5. When to use CPT code 92558

CPT code 92558 should be used when conducting a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions in newborn babies and small children who are unable to cooperate with other hearing tests. It is important to use this code when the provider is performing a qualitative measurement of distortion product or transient evoked otoacoustic emissions and using automated analysis to interpret the results.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 92558, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s age and reason for the screening
• Details of the procedure, including the specific sounds used and the equipment used for measurement
• Date and time of the screening
• Results of the screening, including any abnormalities or concerns
• Signature of the provider who performed the screening

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 92558, ensure that the screening is performed using automated analysis and that the provider has the necessary equipment and expertise. It is important to follow the specific guidelines set by the payer to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement. It is also important to note that CPT code 92558 should not be reported with other codes unless specifically instructed by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT code 92558 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2012. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A pediatrician performing a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions on a newborn baby to assess their hearing abilities.
2. An audiologist conducting a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions on a young child who has been experiencing difficulties with hearing.
3. A family physician referring a patient to an otolaryngologist for a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions after suspecting a potential hearing problem.
4. A nurse practitioner performing a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions on a toddler as part of a routine check-up.
5. A pediatric nurse conducting a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions on a preschool-aged child to monitor their hearing development.
6. An otolaryngologist using automated analysis to interpret the results of a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions in a young patient.
7. A speech-language pathologist referring a child for a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions to rule out any hearing-related issues that may be affecting their speech development.
8. A primary care provider ordering a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions for a child who has a family history of hearing loss.
9. An audiometric technician performing a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions on a school-aged child as part of a hearing conservation program.
10. A pediatrician conducting a screening of evoked otoacoustic emissions on a premature baby to assess their hearing abilities.