How To Use CPT Code 92568

CPT 92568 describes the procedure for acoustic reflex testing, specifically measuring the contraction of the stapedius muscle in response to loud sound. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 92568?

CPT 92568 can be used to describe the procedure for acoustic reflex testing, which involves measuring the contraction of the stapedius muscle in response to loud sound. This test helps determine the cause of hearing loss in patients.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 92568 is: ‘Acoustic reflex testing, threshold.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider fits the patient with an earphone on one ear and a probe in the other ear.
2. Loud sound is then passed through both ears, and the provider measures the variation in opposition due to contraction of the stapedius muscle in one ear.
3. The provider also measures the stapedius muscle reflex in each ear at different frequency levels.
4. The position of the earphone and probe is then reversed to test the other ear.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Acoustic reflex testing is typically performed on patients who are experiencing hearing loss. The procedure helps determine the cause of the hearing loss by measuring the contraction of the stapedius muscle in response to loud sound. It is important to note that this procedure requires specialized equipment and should be performed by a qualified healthcare provider.

5. When to use CPT code 92568

CPT code 92568 should be used when performing acoustic reflex testing to measure the threshold of the stapedius muscle contraction in response to loud sound. This code is specific to the procedure described and should not be used for other types of hearing tests or evaluations.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 92568, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s symptoms or complaints related to hearing loss
• Details of the acoustic reflex testing procedure performed
• Results of the testing, including the threshold of stapedius muscle contraction
• Any additional relevant findings or observations
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 92568, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider and that the documentation requirements are met. It is important to note that this code cannot be reported with other codes such as tympanometry or acoustic immittance testing, as these services are already bundled with CPT 92568. Modifier 52, Reduced services, should be used if the test is only applied to one ear instead of both.

8. Historical information

CPT 92568 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been a few changes to the code over the years, including updates to the official description and terminology.

9. Examples

1. Audiologist performing acoustic reflex testing to measure the threshold of stapedius muscle contraction in response to loud sound for a patient with suspected hearing loss.
2. ENT specialist conducting acoustic reflex testing to assess the cause of hearing loss in a pediatric patient.
3. Hearing healthcare provider performing acoustic reflex testing as part of a comprehensive evaluation for a patient with tinnitus.
4. Speech-language pathologist using acoustic reflex testing to determine the impact of a patient’s hearing loss on their speech and language abilities.
5. Neurologist utilizing acoustic reflex testing to evaluate the function of the central auditory pathways in a patient with suspected neurological disorders.
6. Primary care physician referring a patient to an audiologist for acoustic reflex testing to rule out any underlying medical conditions causing their hearing loss.
7. Otolaryngologist performing acoustic reflex testing to monitor the progress of a patient’s treatment for a middle ear disorder.
8. Pediatrician ordering acoustic reflex testing to assess the hearing function of a newborn baby.
9. Geriatrician recommending acoustic reflex testing as part of a comprehensive geriatric assessment for an elderly patient with age-related hearing loss.
10. Occupational therapist incorporating acoustic reflex testing into a sensory integration therapy program for a child with auditory processing difficulties.