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Official Description

Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy involving corpus cavernosum, low energy

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) of the corpus cavernosum is a noninvasive therapeutic approach designed to address erectile dysfunction (ED). This treatment modality is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced ED following prostate cancer interventions, such as radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy. Erectile dysfunction can arise from various underlying causes, with vascular issues being the most prevalent, often linked to insufficient blood flow to the penis. Other contributing factors may include nerve signal deficiencies, psychological conditions such as anxiety, excessive norepinephrine levels, or hormonal imbalances. After prostate cancer treatments, patients frequently suffer from vascular damage and cavernosal nerve injury, which can exacerbate ED. Li-ESWT works by promoting angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels, thereby enhancing blood flow to the penis. Additionally, it aids in nerve regeneration within the corpus cavernosum. The procedure utilizes an extracorporeal device that emits a series of focused linear shockwaves, delivering pulsed acoustic energy in the ultrasonic range, specifically at an intensity of 0.09 mJ/mm², and can penetrate up to 70mm. During the treatment, the patient is positioned supine, allowing the shockwaves to effectively target both corpus cavernosum structures. The procedure does not require anesthesia, and each session typically lasts around 20 minutes. Patients may undergo multiple sessions over several weeks to achieve optimal results.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The indications for low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) of the corpus cavernosum primarily include the following conditions:

  • Erectile Dysfunction (ED) - This treatment is specifically indicated for patients experiencing erectile dysfunction, particularly those whose condition may be related to vascular insufficiencies or nerve damage.
  • Post-Prostate Cancer Treatment - Li-ESWT is beneficial for individuals who have undergone prostate cancer treatments, such as radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy, which can lead to erectile dysfunction due to vascular and nerve damage.

2. Procedure

The procedure for low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) involves several key steps that ensure effective treatment of erectile dysfunction:

  • Patient Positioning - The patient is positioned supine on a treatment table to allow optimal access to the genital area for the application of shockwaves.
  • Device Preparation - An extracorporeal Li-ESWT device is prepared, which is designed to deliver focused linear shockwaves. The device settings are adjusted to emit pulsed acoustic energy at an intensity of 0.09 mJ/mm².
  • Shockwave Application - The clinician applies the shockwaves to the penis, specifically targeting the corpus cavernosum. The treatment involves delivering a series of shockwaves that penetrate up to 70mm into the tissue.
  • Session Duration - Each treatment session lasts approximately 20 minutes, during which the shockwaves are continuously applied to stimulate blood flow and nerve regeneration.
  • Session Frequency - Patients may require multiple treatment sessions over a span of several weeks to achieve the desired therapeutic outcomes.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT), patients can typically resume normal activities immediately, as the procedure is noninvasive and does not require anesthesia. There are generally no significant recovery times associated with the treatment. However, patients may be advised to monitor their response to the therapy and report any unusual symptoms or discomfort to their healthcare provider. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and determine if additional sessions are necessary for optimal results.

Short Descr LOW NTSTY ESWT CORPUS CVRNSM
Medium Descr LOW INTENSITY ESWT CORPUS CAVERNOSUM LOW ENERGY
Long Descr Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy involving corpus cavernosum, low energy
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 Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies
ASC Payment Indicator Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later without MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE 1
Date
Action
Notes
2024-01-01 Added Code Added.
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