CPT® Code 0685T

Official Description

Interrogation device evaluation (in-person) with analysis, review and report by a physician or other qualified health care professional, including connection, recording and disconnection per patient encounter, permanent implantable synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system for augmentation of cardiac function

Common Language Description

An interrogation device evaluation is a critical procedure performed in-person to assess the functionality of a permanent implantable synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation (SDS) system, which is designed to augment cardiac function. This evaluation is conducted by a physician or another qualified healthcare professional who is responsible for analyzing, reviewing, and reporting the findings from the interrogation. During this procedure, the patient is connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor to facilitate the assessment of cardiac activity. The process begins with establishing a connection between the SDS device and the interrogation equipment, allowing for the retrieval of essential data regarding the device's performance. This includes information about the leads, battery status, and heart rhythm and rate. The healthcare professional meticulously reviews the interrogated data to evaluate the device's operational parameters, such as battery voltage and lead impedance, as well as to detect any arrhythmias through ECG recordings. The findings from this evaluation are compared with previous data to ensure continuity of care and to identify any changes in the patient's condition. Ultimately, the patient is informed of the results, and a comprehensive written report is generated to document the evaluation and its outcomes.

1. Indications

The interrogation device evaluation is indicated for patients who present with symptoms or complaints that may suggest a malfunction of the synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation (SDS) system or a change in their cardiac function. This evaluation is essential for monitoring the effectiveness of the device and ensuring that it is functioning as intended.

Device Malfunction Symptoms indicating potential issues with the SDS system, necessitating an evaluation to determine if the device is operating correctly.
Change in Cardiac Function Any alterations in the patient's cardiac status that may require assessment of the SDS system's performance and its impact on cardiac function.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the interrogation device evaluation involves several critical steps to ensure a thorough assessment of the SDS system.

Step 1: Patient Connection The patient is first connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor. This connection is vital for real-time monitoring of the patient's heart activity during the evaluation.
Step 2: Establishing Connection A connection is then established between the SDS device and the interrogation equipment. This step is crucial for retrieving data from the device, which includes information about the leads, battery status, and heart rhythm.
Step 3: Data Retrieval The SDS system is interrogated to collect data regarding its performance. This includes assessing lead integrity, battery voltage, and heart rhythm and rate data, which are essential for evaluating the device's functionality.
Step 4: Data Analysis The physician or qualified healthcare professional reviews the interrogated data to assess various parameters, including lead impedance and cardiac cycle detection. This analysis helps determine if the device is functioning optimally.
Step 5: ECG Review The ECG recordings are examined for the presence of arrhythmias, which may indicate issues with the device or the patient's cardiac health.
Step 6: Comparison with Previous Data The current data is compared with any previous data acquisitions to identify any changes in the device's performance or the patient's condition over time.
Step 7: Device Evaluation The device is evaluated for its ability to sense and deliver shocks to the diaphragm in synchronization with the cardiac rhythm, ensuring that it is functioning as intended.
Step 8: Reporting Findings Finally, the patient is informed of the findings from the evaluation, and a written report is generated to document the results and any necessary follow-up actions.

3. Post-Procedure

After the interrogation device evaluation, the patient may receive guidance based on the findings. This may include recommendations for further monitoring, adjustments to the device settings, or additional follow-up appointments if any issues are identified. The written report serves as a comprehensive record of the evaluation, which can be used for future reference and ongoing patient management. The healthcare professional ensures that the patient understands the results and any implications for their treatment plan.

Short Descr	INTERROG DEV EVAL ISDSS IP
Medium Descr	INTERROGATION DEVICE EVALUATION IN PERSON ISDSS
Long Descr	Interrogation device evaluation (in-person) with analysis, review and report by a physician or other qualified health care professional, including connection, recording and disconnection per patient encounter, permanent implantable synchronized diaphragmatic stimulation system for augmentation of cardiac function
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51)	6 - Special payment adjustment rules on the technical component (TC) of multiple diagnostic cardiovascular services 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
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	none
MUE	1

Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.