© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
A permanent implantable synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation (SDS) system is designed to enhance cardiac function, particularly in patients experiencing moderate to severe heart failure while maintaining preserved ventricular synchrony. This innovative system works by stimulating the diaphragm in synchronization with the cardiac cycle, which helps modify chest pressure. This modification facilitates improved filling and emptying of the heart, ultimately enhancing blood flow without placing additional stress on the heart muscle. The system comprises two bipolar active fixation leads that are implanted on the underside of the diaphragm, a pulse generator, and programming software. The pulse generator is responsible for sending a small electrical impulse to stimulate a specific area of the diaphragm, ensuring that normal breathing is not affected. In cases where the existing pulse generator needs to be relocated—often due to complications such as pain, discomfort, necrosis, hematoma, infection, or tissue erosion at the original site—CPT® Code 0681T is utilized. This code specifically refers to the procedure of relocating the pulse generator only, while maintaining the connection to the existing dual leads. The relocation process involves creating a new subcutaneous pocket in the abdomen to house the pulse generator, which is crucial for detecting cardiac activity. This procedure is essential for ensuring the continued effectiveness of the SDS system and the overall well-being of the patient.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The relocation of the pulse generator for a permanent implantable synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system is indicated in the following situations:
The procedure for relocating the pulse generator involves several critical steps to ensure patient safety and device functionality:
After the relocation of the pulse generator, patients may require monitoring for any signs of complications such as infection or improper healing at the new site. It is essential to ensure that the generator is functioning correctly and that the leads remain securely connected. Patients may also need follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the device in augmenting cardiac function and to make any necessary adjustments to the programming software. Proper care of the incision site is crucial to promote healing and prevent infection.
| Short Descr | RLCJ PULSE GEN ONLY ISDSS | Medium Descr | RELOCATION PULSE GENERATOR ONLY ISDSS | Long Descr | Relocation of pulse generator only, permanent implantable synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system for augmentation of cardiac function, with connection to existing dual leads | 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) | 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 | Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC | ASC Payment Indicator | Non office-based surgical procedure added in CY 2008 or later; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight. | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | none | MUE | 1 |
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| 2022-01-01 | Added | Code added |
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