© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The vagus nerve blocking (VBLOC) therapy system is a specialized treatment designed for individuals suffering from morbid obesity. This innovative approach involves the implantation of a neuroblocking pulse generator, which is a device that generates electrical pulses to modulate the activity of the vagus nerve. The neurogenerator is strategically placed in the subcutaneous tissue, typically near the ribs, to ensure optimal functionality. Connected to this device are leads, which are essentially electrodes or electrode arrays, that are positioned along the vagus nerve at the esophagogastric junction (EGJ). The primary function of the neurogenerator is to emit intermittent, high-frequency, low-energy electrical pulses during the patient's waking hours, which helps in regulating appetite and promoting weight loss. To facilitate the operation of the VBLOC system, patients utilize a mobile charger that is worn externally for short durations. This mobile charger is designed to connect to a transmit coil that is placed on the skin directly over the neurogenerator. The connection allows for radiofrequency battery charging and the transmission of programming information to the neurogenerator. Healthcare professionals, such as physicians, can access the system's stored reports through a clinician programming unit that connects to the mobile charger. These reports provide valuable insights into patient usage and the overall performance of the system. By reviewing this data, the healthcare provider can make necessary adjustments to the therapy settings, ensuring that the treatment is optimized for the best possible outcomes in managing morbid obesity.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The vagus nerve blocking therapy is indicated for patients diagnosed with morbid obesity, which is characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat that presents a risk to health. This therapy is typically considered when other weight loss methods, such as diet, exercise, and pharmacotherapy, have not resulted in significant weight loss or have been ineffective. The procedure aims to assist in weight management by modulating the signals sent by the vagus nerve, which plays a crucial role in regulating hunger and satiety.
The procedure for vagus nerve blocking therapy involves several key steps to ensure the successful implantation and functionality of the neuroblocking system. Initially, the patient is prepared for surgery, which includes administering anesthesia and positioning the patient appropriately. The surgeon then makes a small incision in the abdominal area to access the subcutaneous tissue where the neurogenerator will be implanted.
After the vagus nerve blocking therapy procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Post-procedure care includes instructions on how to care for the incision site, manage any discomfort, and recognize signs of potential complications. Patients may be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a specified period to allow for proper healing. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the effectiveness of the therapy, review the stored reports from the system, and make any necessary adjustments to the therapy settings to optimize weight loss outcomes. Additionally, patients will need to use the mobile charger as directed to maintain the functionality of the neurogenerator and ensure continuous therapy delivery.
| Short Descr | ELEC ALYS VAGUS NRV PLS GEN | Medium Descr | ELEC ALYS NSTIM PLS GEN VAGUS NRV W/REPRGRMG | Long Descr | Vagus nerve blocking therapy (morbid obesity); neurostimulator pulse generator electronic analysis, includes reprogramming when performed | 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) | 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 | STV-Packaged Codes | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P1G - Major procedure - Other | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 244 - Gastric bypass and volume reduction |
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| 2022-12-31 | Deleted | Code deleted. For laparoscopic implantation, revision, replacement, or removal of vagus nerve blocking neurostimulator electrode array and/or pulse generator at the esophagogastric junction, use 64999. |
| 2013-01-01 | Added | First appearance in codebook. |
| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Guideline information changed. |
| 2012-01-01 | Added | Added |
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