CPT® Code 95965

Official Description

Magnetoencephalography (MEG), recording and analysis; for spontaneous brain magnetic activity (eg, epileptic cerebral cortex localization)

Common Language Description

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a sophisticated, noninvasive diagnostic technique utilized to assess and analyze abnormal brain function. This method is particularly valuable in the context of various neurological disorders, as it provides critical insights into brain activity. MEG is often employed alongside other diagnostic studies, such as electroencephalograms (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to enhance the evaluation of brain disorders. The primary application of MEG includes the localization of epileptic foci, which is essential prior to surgical interventions aimed at treating epilepsy. Additionally, MEG is instrumental in identifying eloquent cortical areas of the brain—regions responsible for critical functions such as sensory processing, motor control, language, and vision—before surgical procedures for brain tumors or arteriovenous malformations. The technology behind MEG involves the use of a multichannel superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) biomagnetometer system, which is designed to detect and measure the magnetic fields produced by neuronal activity in the brain. This system is equipped with over 100 sensors strategically placed on the scalp to capture the magnetic fields associated with brain activity. Once the magnetic field data is recorded, it is meticulously mapped to pinpoint the locations of epileptic foci or eloquent cortical regions. This mapping process is further refined by overlaying the MEG data onto MRI studies of the brain, allowing for precise localization of the areas of interest. Following the recording and analysis, the physician conducts a thorough review of the MEG findings and generates a comprehensive written interpretation, which is crucial for guiding subsequent clinical decisions and interventions.

1. Indications

The indications for performing magnetoencephalography (MEG) include the following:

Localization of Epileptic Foci MEG is utilized to accurately identify the regions of the brain where epileptic activity originates, which is critical for planning surgical interventions in patients with epilepsy.
Localization of Eloquent Cortical Areas MEG assists in mapping areas of the brain responsible for essential functions such as sensory perception, motor control, language, and visual processing, particularly before surgeries for brain tumors or arteriovenous malformations.

2. Procedure

The procedure for magnetoencephalography (MEG) involves several key steps that ensure accurate recording and analysis of brain magnetic activity:

Preparation of the Patient The patient is prepared for the MEG procedure by ensuring that they are comfortable and positioned appropriately. The scalp is typically cleaned to enhance the quality of the recordings, and the patient may be instructed to remain still during the test to minimize artifacts in the data.
Placement of Sensors A multichannel superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) biomagnetometer system is employed, which consists of over 100 sensors. These sensors are carefully positioned on the patient's scalp to capture the magnetic fields generated by neuronal activity in the brain.
Recording of Magnetic Fields The MEG system records the magnetic fields associated with brain activity while the patient may be engaged in specific tasks or at rest. This data collection is crucial for identifying areas of abnormal brain function.
Mapping and Analysis After the recording, the magnetic field data is processed and mapped to locate the sites of epileptic foci or eloquent cortical regions. This mapping is then overlaid on MRI images of the brain to provide precise anatomical localization.
Interpretation of Findings The physician reviews the MEG recordings and the corresponding maps, providing a detailed written interpretation of the findings. This interpretation is essential for guiding further clinical management and surgical planning.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients undergoing magnetoencephalography (MEG) typically involves monitoring the patient for any immediate reactions after the test. Since MEG is a noninvasive procedure, there are generally no significant recovery concerns. Patients may resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure. The physician will discuss the findings with the patient during a follow-up appointment, where the implications of the MEG results for treatment or further diagnostic steps will be addressed. Additionally, any necessary referrals for surgical consultation or further imaging studies may be made based on the MEG findings.

Short Descr	MEG SPONTANEOUS
Medium Descr	MAGNETOENCEPHALOGRAPHY SPON BRAIN ACTIVITY
Long Descr	Magnetoencephalography (MEG), recording and analysis; for spontaneous brain magnetic activity (eg, epileptic cerebral cortex localization)
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51)	0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50)	0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions	09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82)	0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62)	0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66)	0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family	99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator	Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
Type of Service (TOS)	4 - Diagnostic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	T2D - Other tests - other
MUE	1
CCS Clinical Classification	7 - Other diagnostic nervous system procedures

26	Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
GC	This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
TC	Technical component; under certain circumstances, a charge may be made for the technical component alone; under those circumstances the technical component charge is identified by adding modifier 'tc' to the usual procedure number; technical component charges are institutional charges and not billed separately by physicians; however, portable x-ray suppliers only bill for technical component and should utilize modifier tc; the charge data from portable x-ray suppliers will then be used to build customary and prevailing profiles