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Official Description

Removal of implantable interstitial glucose sensor from subcutaneous pocket via incision

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0447T involves the removal of an implantable interstitial glucose sensor from a subcutaneous pocket through a surgical incision. This procedure is integral to diabetes management, as the glucose sensor plays a crucial role in monitoring glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. The sensor utilizes a fluorescent glucose-indicating polymer that continuously tracks glucose concentrations, providing real-time data to the wearer. A transmitter, worn externally, powers the sensor and collects glucose readings, which are then transmitted to a smartphone application for easy access and monitoring. The removal process begins with the administration of a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. A small incision is made at one end of the sensor, allowing for the careful extraction of the device. This procedure is essential for patients who may need to replace their glucose sensors or discontinue their use, ensuring that the management of their diabetes remains effective and safe. The removal of the sensor is a critical step in the overall process of glucose monitoring, which may also involve the insertion of a new sensor at a different anatomical site, as indicated by related CPT codes.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The removal of an implantable interstitial glucose sensor, as described by CPT® Code 0447T, is indicated for patients who require the discontinuation of sensor use due to various reasons. These may include:

  • Device Malfunction: The sensor may not be functioning correctly, leading to inaccurate glucose readings.
  • End of Sensor Life: The sensor has reached its operational lifespan and needs to be replaced.
  • Patient Preference: The patient may choose to stop using the sensor for personal reasons or due to discomfort.
  • Medical Complications: The patient may experience adverse reactions or complications related to the sensor that necessitate its removal.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the removal of the implantable interstitial glucose sensor involves several key steps:

  • Step 1: The first step in the removal process is the administration of a local anesthetic to the area surrounding the glucose sensor. This is crucial to ensure that the patient experiences minimal discomfort during the procedure.
  • Step 2: Following the anesthetic injection, a small incision is made in the skin at one end of the glucose sensor. This incision typically measures around 5-8 mm and provides access to the device.
  • Step 3: Once the incision is made, any scar tissue that may have formed around the sensor is gently debrided. This step is important to facilitate the safe removal of the device without causing damage to surrounding tissues.
  • Step 4: The sensor is then grasped with a hemostat, a surgical instrument designed to hold or clamp tissues, and is carefully removed from the subcutaneous pocket.
  • Step 5: After the sensor has been successfully removed, the incision site may be closed with sutures or adhesive strips, depending on the surgeon's preference and the specific circumstances of the procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the removal of the implantable interstitial glucose sensor is essential for ensuring proper healing and minimizing complications. Patients are typically advised to keep the incision site clean and dry, and to monitor for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. Pain management may be necessary, and over-the-counter analgesics can be recommended. Patients should also be instructed on how to care for the incision site and when to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the healing process and to discuss the potential for re-insertion of a new glucose sensor if needed.

Short Descr RMVL IMPLTBL GLUCOSE SENSOR
Medium Descr RMVL IMPLTBL GLUCOSE SENSOR SUBQ POCKET VIA INC
Long Descr Removal of implantable interstitial glucose sensor from subcutaneous pocket via incision
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard 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) 1 - Statutory 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 T-Packaged Codes
ASC Payment Indicator Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later with MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs.
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P5E - Ambulatory procedures - other
MUE 1
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
GZ Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary
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2017-01-01 Added Added
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