CPT® Code 0615T

Official Description

Automated analysis of binocular eye movements without spatial calibration, including disconjugacy, saccades, and pupillary dynamics for the assessment of concussion, with interpretation and report

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 0615T refers to an automated analysis of binocular eye movements that does not require spatial calibration. This procedure is specifically designed for the assessment of concussion, a condition that can significantly affect ocular motility. The analysis includes the evaluation of disconjugacy, saccades, and pupillary dynamics, which are critical components in understanding how well the eyes function following a suspected mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Unlike traditional imaging techniques that may not reveal subtle changes in brain function, this noninvasive test provides valuable insights into the patient's neurological status by tracking eye movements. The methodology involves the patient resting their chin and forehead in a monitor viewer while observing a video that moves around the screen's perimeter. This setup allows for the continuous tracking of the pupils over a period of 220 seconds. The data collected is then compared to a control database to assess the severity of any abnormal eye movements. The non-spatially calibrated nature of this analysis is particularly advantageous, as it mitigates the risk of misinterpretation that can occur with spatial calibration, where one eye's limited movement might be inaccurately recorded as normal. Overall, this procedure serves as a crucial tool in the timely assessment and diagnosis of concussion-related impairments in eye movement.

1. Indications

The automated analysis of binocular eye movements using CPT® Code 0615T is indicated for the assessment of concussion, particularly in cases where mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is suspected. This procedure is beneficial for evaluating patients who exhibit symptoms related to concussion, which may include but are not limited to:

Disconjugacy The condition where the eyes do not move together, which can indicate neurological impairment.
Saccadic Dysfunction Difficulty in making rapid eye movements to shift focus, which can be a sign of brain injury.
Pupillary Dynamics Changes in pupil response that may reflect underlying neurological issues associated with concussion.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the automated analysis of binocular eye movements involves several key steps that ensure accurate assessment of the patient's ocular motility. The following outlines the procedural steps:

Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is positioned comfortably with their chin and forehead resting in a monitor viewer. This setup is crucial for stabilizing the head and ensuring that eye movements can be accurately tracked during the test.
Step 2: Video Presentation The patient is instructed to watch a short video that plays continuously within the aperture of the monitor. The video is designed to move around the screen's perimeter, prompting the eyes to track the moving images.
Step 3: Eye Movement Tracking During the 220 seconds of the test, the pupils are continuously tracked. The automated system records the trajectories of eye movements, capturing data on how well the eyes are able to move in response to the visual stimuli.
Step 4: Data Analysis The collected data is analyzed to assess the severity of any abnormal eye movements. This includes evaluating disconjugate movements, where the eyes move in opposite directions, and measuring the saccadic ability to shift gaze quickly.
Step 5: Interpretation and Reporting Finally, the results are interpreted, and a report is generated. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the findings, which can be used to inform clinical decisions regarding the patient's condition.

3. Post-Procedure

After the automated analysis of binocular eye movements is completed, the patient may resume normal activities unless otherwise advised by the healthcare provider. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements, as the test is noninvasive and does not involve any physical intervention. However, it is essential for the healthcare provider to review the results with the patient and discuss any necessary follow-up actions based on the findings. This may include further evaluation or monitoring for concussion-related symptoms, as well as recommendations for rest or rehabilitation if indicated.

Short Descr	AUTO ALYS BINOCULAR EYE MVMT
Medium Descr	AUTO ALYS BINOCULAR EYE MVMT ASSMT CONCUSSION
Long Descr	Automated analysis of binocular eye movements without spatial calibration, including disconjugacy, saccades, and pupillary dynamics for the assessment of concussion, with interpretation and report
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	YYY - Carrier Determines Whether Global Concept Applies
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	Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	none
MUE	1