How To Use CPT Code 95822

CPT 95822 describes the procedure of performing an electroencephalogram (EEG) on a patient who is in a state of coma or sleep. 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 95822?

CPT 95822 can be used to describe the diagnostic test known as an electroencephalogram (EEG) that measures the electrical activity of the brain. This code specifically applies to EEGs performed on patients who are in a state of coma or sleep. The provider attaches small electrodes to the patient’s scalp to record the brain’s electrical activity during this procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 95822 is: ‘Electroencephalogram (EEG); recording in coma or sleep only.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider places small electrodes on the patient’s scalp to measure the electrical activity of the brain.
2. The EEG is performed while the patient is in a state of coma or sleep.
3. The provider records the brain’s electrical activity using the EEG machine.
4. The recorded data is analyzed and interpreted by the provider to diagnose any abnormalities or brain disorders.
5. The provider may use the EEG to identify early signs of recovery or establish a prognosis for coma patients.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 95822 is used when performing an EEG on patients who are in a state of coma or sleep. This procedure is typically used to diagnose epilepsy, which causes abnormalities in the EEG reading. It can also be used to diagnose other brain disorders and assess the brain’s activity during sleep. The provider must ensure that the patient meets the specific criteria for this code, including being in a state of coma or sleep during the EEG recording.

5. When to use CPT code 95822

CPT code 95822 should be used when performing an EEG on a patient who is in a state of coma or sleep. It is important to accurately document the patient’s condition and the specific circumstances of the EEG recording to support the use of this code. If the EEG is performed for other reasons or on patients who are not in a state of coma or sleep, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 95822, the provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s condition, whether it is coma or sleep
• The specific reason for performing the EEG
• The date and duration of the EEG recording
• The analysis and interpretation of the EEG results
• Any abnormalities or brain disorders identified
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 95822, ensure that the EEG is performed on a patient who is in a state of coma or sleep. If only the professional component of the service is being reported, append modifier 26 to the code. If only the technical component is being reported, append modifier TC to the code. However, if the hospital provides the technical component, do not append modifier TC. It is important to follow the specific billing guidelines of the payer and accurately report the services provided.

8. Historical information

CPT 95822 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient in a coma undergoes an EEG to assess brain activity and establish a prognosis.
2. An individual with sleep disorders undergoes an EEG to diagnose any abnormalities in brain activity during sleep.
3. A patient in a state of deep and prolonged unconsciousness undergoes an EEG to monitor brain activity and identify signs of recovery.
4. An individual with epilepsy undergoes an EEG to detect any abnormalities in brain activity that may be causing seizures.
5. A patient with suspected brain disorders undergoes an EEG to assess the electrical activity of the brain and aid in diagnosis.
6. An individual with a history of sleepwalking undergoes an EEG to evaluate brain activity during sleep and identify any underlying causes.
7. A patient in a coma following a traumatic brain injury undergoes an EEG to monitor brain activity and assess the extent of the injury.
8. An individual with suspected narcolepsy undergoes an EEG to evaluate brain activity during sleep and aid in diagnosis.
9. A patient with a history of seizures undergoes an EEG to monitor brain activity and assess the effectiveness of medication.
10. An individual with suspected sleep apnea undergoes an EEG to evaluate brain activity during sleep and determine the presence of any abnormalities.