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CPT®
0282T

CPT® Code 0282T

Official Description

Percutaneous or open implantation of neurostimulator electrode array(s), subcutaneous (peripheral subcutaneous field stimulation), including imaging guidance, when performed, cervical, thoracic or lumbar; for trial, including removal at the conclusion of trial period

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0282T involves the implantation of neurostimulator electrode arrays in a subcutaneous manner, specifically targeting peripheral subcutaneous field stimulation. This technique is utilized to alleviate pain in patients suffering from conditions affecting the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions of the spine. Unlike traditional spinal cord stimulation, which targets the central nervous system, peripheral subcutaneous field stimulation focuses on delivering electrical impulses directly to the painful areas just beneath the skin. This method aims to provide localized pain relief by modulating the nerve signals in the affected regions. The procedure is categorized as a trial implantation, which allows for the assessment of the patient's response to the stimulation before any permanent devices are implanted. The trial period typically lasts between 2 to 14 days, during which the effectiveness of the stimulation is evaluated. If the trial proves successful in reducing pain, the patient may then proceed to a permanent implantation of the neurostimulator electrode array and an implantable pulse generator, as described in the subsequent CPT® Code 0283T.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0282T is indicated for patients experiencing chronic pain localized to the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions of the spine. This may include conditions such as neuropathic pain, post-surgical pain, or other pain syndromes that have not responded adequately to conservative treatments. The goal of the procedure is to evaluate the effectiveness of peripheral subcutaneous field stimulation in providing pain relief during a trial period.

  • Chronic Pain Patients suffering from persistent pain in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar areas that has not improved with other treatment modalities.
  • Neuropathic Pain Conditions characterized by nerve damage or dysfunction leading to pain, which may benefit from electrical stimulation.
  • Post-Surgical Pain Ongoing pain following surgical interventions in the spine that has not resolved with standard pain management approaches.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 0282T involves several key steps to ensure the successful implantation of the neurostimulator electrode array. First, the area of maximal pain is identified and marked on the patient's skin. This is crucial for targeting the most effective site for stimulation. Next, the clinician performs a percutaneous placement of the trial electrode array. An introducer needle is advanced into the subcutaneous tissue at the marked location, utilizing imaging guidance as necessary to ensure accurate placement. Once the needle is in position, an electrode array is threaded through the needle and carefully positioned within the subcutaneous tissue of the target area. The correct positioning of the electrode array is then verified using fluoroscopic imaging to confirm that it is optimally placed for effective stimulation.

  • Step 1: Identification and Marking The clinician identifies the area of maximal pain and marks it on the skin to guide the placement of the electrode array.
  • Step 2: Needle Insertion An introducer needle is advanced into the subcutaneous tissue at the marked site, with imaging guidance employed as needed for precision.
  • Step 3: Electrode Array Placement An electrode array is threaded through the needle and positioned in the subcutaneous tissue, followed by verification of its placement using fluoroscopy.
  • Step 4: Securing the Electrode After confirming correct positioning, the needle is removed, and the electrode array is secured to the skin with sutures.
  • Step 5: Open Placement Option Alternatively, if necessary, a small incision may be made over the area of maximal pain for open placement of the electrode array, which is then secured and the incision closed.
  • Step 6: Connection to Pulse Generator Each electrode is connected to an external pulse generator, which is tested and programmed to deliver the appropriate stimulation.
  • Step 7: Trial Period The trial electrode array remains in place for a duration of 2 to 14 days, during which the patient's response to the stimulation is evaluated.
  • Step 8: Removal of Trial Array At the conclusion of the trial period, the electrode array is removed, and if sufficient pain relief is achieved, the patient may be scheduled for a permanent implantation.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, patients are monitored for any immediate complications related to the implantation. The trial electrode array is left in place for a specified duration, typically between 2 to 14 days, during which the effectiveness of the stimulation is assessed. Patients are advised to keep the area clean and dry, and to report any unusual symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection. Following the trial period, the clinician will evaluate the patient's response to the stimulation. If there is a significant reduction in pain, the patient may be considered for a subsequent procedure involving the permanent implantation of the neurostimulator electrode array and an implantable pulse generator. This decision will be based on the documented effectiveness of the trial stimulation in alleviating the patient's pain.
Short Descr PERIPH FIELD STIMUL TRIAL
Medium Descr PERC/OPEN IMPLNT NEUROSTIM ELECTRODE SUBQ TRIAL
Long Descr Percutaneous or open implantation of neurostimulator electrode array(s), subcutaneous (peripheral subcutaneous field stimulation), including imaging guidance, when performed, cervical, thoracic or lumbar; for trial, including removal at the conclusion of trial period
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 9 - 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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2017-01-01 Changed Moderate (Conscious) Sedation flag removed. See new Moderate Sedation category.
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted.
2012-01-01 Added Added
Code
Description
Code
Description
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