How To Use CPT Code 92653

CPT 92653 describes the procedure for auditory evoked potentials, a neurodiagnostic test used to assess the patient’s response to sound stimuli and diagnose neurological disorders. 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 92653?

CPT 92653 is a code used to describe the procedure for auditory evoked potentials, a neurodiagnostic test that measures the patient’s response to sound stimuli. This test helps in diagnosing neurological disorders by assessing the electrical signals generated by the nervous system in response to external physiological or electrical stimuli. It provides valuable information about the functioning of the nervous system and aids in the evaluation of hearing and neurological conditions.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 92653 is: ‘Auditory evoked potentials; neurodiagnostic, with interpretation and report.’ This code includes the placement of electrodes behind the patient’s ears and on the forehead, the presentation of sounds through earphones, and the recording of electrical responses (auditory evoked potentials) to the auditory stimuli. The provider then interprets the response and completes a report related to the assessment of the nervous system.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by placing electrodes behind the patient’s ears and on their forehead.
2. Earphones are then placed over the patient’s ears.
3. Sounds are presented through the earphones, and the computer attached to the electrodes records the electrical responses (auditory evoked potentials) to the auditory stimuli.
4. The provider interprets the response and completes a report in relation to the assessment of the nervous system.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 92653 is used when a patient undergoes auditory evoked potentials to diagnose a neurological disorder. This procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider who specializes in neurodiagnostics. The patient may be experiencing symptoms related to hearing loss, balance issues, or other neurological conditions that require further evaluation. The test helps in identifying abnormalities in the auditory pathways and provides valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.

5. When to use CPT code 92653

CPT code 92653 should be used when a provider performs auditory evoked potentials to assess the patient’s response to sound stimuli and diagnose neurological disorders. It is appropriate to use this code when the procedure is performed with interpretation and report. However, it should not be reported in conjunction with CPT codes 92651 or 92652, as they represent different auditory evoked potential procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 92653, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s symptoms or indications for the auditory evoked potentials
• Details of the procedure, including electrode placement and sound stimuli presentation
• Interpretation of the auditory evoked potentials and findings
• Report related to the assessment of the nervous system

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 92653, ensure that the procedure is performed with interpretation and report. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and use the appropriate modifiers if required. Do not report CPT 92653 in conjunction with CPT codes 92651 or 92652. It is also important to review the payer’s policies regarding coverage and reimbursement for auditory evoked potentials.

8. Historical information

CPT 92653 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2021. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with suspected auditory neuropathy undergoes auditory evoked potentials to assess the functioning of their auditory pathways.
2. A child with developmental delays undergoes auditory evoked potentials to evaluate their hearing and neurological status.
3. A patient with balance issues undergoes auditory evoked potentials to assess the integrity of their vestibular system.
4. A patient with tinnitus undergoes auditory evoked potentials to determine the underlying cause of their symptoms.
5. A patient with suspected auditory processing disorder undergoes auditory evoked potentials to evaluate their auditory system’s ability to process and interpret sounds.
6. A patient with a history of head trauma undergoes auditory evoked potentials to assess any potential neurological damage.
7. A patient with sudden hearing loss undergoes auditory evoked potentials to determine the cause of their hearing impairment.
8. A newborn baby undergoes auditory evoked potentials as part of a hearing screening program.
9. A patient with multiple sclerosis undergoes auditory evoked potentials to assess the integrity of their central nervous system.
10. A patient with a brainstem lesion undergoes auditory evoked potentials to evaluate the extent of the damage.