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Official Description

Percutaneous implantation of neurostimulator electrode array; cranial nerve

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 64553 involves the percutaneous implantation of a neurostimulator electrode array targeting a cranial nerve, with a common application being the vagus nerve for the management of epileptic seizures. This minimally invasive technique is designed to deliver electrical stimulation to specific cranial nerves, which can modulate neural activity and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with various neurological conditions. The vagus nerve, in particular, plays a significant role in autonomic functions and has been identified as a therapeutic target for seizure control. During the procedure, careful anatomical preparation and precise placement of the electrode array are critical to ensure effective stimulation. The use of ultrasound guidance may be employed to enhance the accuracy of electrode placement, thereby optimizing the therapeutic outcomes for patients. The overall goal of this procedure is to establish a reliable interface between the neurostimulator and the targeted nerve, facilitating ongoing stimulation that can lead to improved clinical results.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The percutaneous implantation of a neurostimulator electrode array, as described by CPT® Code 64553, is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Epileptic Seizures This procedure is commonly performed to help control and reduce the frequency of seizures in patients with epilepsy, particularly when other treatment options have been ineffective.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the percutaneous implantation of a neurostimulator electrode array involves several critical steps to ensure proper placement and functionality of the device.

  • Preparation of the Insertion Site The planned insertion site in the neck is thoroughly prepped to maintain a sterile environment. This preparation is essential to minimize the risk of infection during the procedure.
  • Identification of Anatomical Landmarks The physician identifies key anatomical landmarks in the neck to guide the placement of the electrode array. This step is crucial for ensuring that the electrode is positioned accurately in relation to the vagus nerve.
  • Ultrasound Guidance If necessary, separate reportable ultrasound guidance is utilized to facilitate the correct placement of the electrodes. This imaging technique helps visualize the anatomy and confirm the location of the vagus nerve.
  • Insertion of the Needle An electrically insulated needle is inserted into the side of the neck and advanced parallel to the vagus nerve. The needle is carefully positioned near the carotid sheath to ensure proximity to the target nerve.
  • Stimulation and Response Evaluation A power source is connected to the needle, and electrical stimulation is applied. The physician evaluates motor and sensory responses as the needle's position is adjusted. This step is critical to achieving the desired therapeutic response from the vagus nerve.
  • Placement of the Electrode Array Once the optimal position is determined, the needle is disconnected from the power source. An electrode array is then passed through the lumen of the needle and positioned adjacent to the vagus nerve in the desired location.
  • Removal of the Needle After the electrode array is correctly placed, the needle is removed, leaving the electrode array in situ. This ensures that the electrode remains in the intended position for effective stimulation.
  • Connection to External Generator/Receiver Finally, the electrode array is attached to an external generator/receiver, which will provide the necessary electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care involves monitoring the patient for any immediate complications and ensuring that the electrode array is functioning correctly. Patients may be advised on activity restrictions and follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the neurostimulation. It is important to evaluate the patient's response to the stimulation over time and make any necessary adjustments to the external generator/receiver settings to optimize therapeutic outcomes.

Short Descr IMPLANT NEUROELECTRODES
Medium Descr PRQ IMPLTJ NEUROSTIMULATOR ELTRD CRANIAL NERVE
Long Descr Percutaneous implantation of neurostimulator electrode array; cranial nerve
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 010 - 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) 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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Device-intensive procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later; paid at adjusted rate.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
58 Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78.
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.
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
AS Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
XS Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure
Date
Action
Notes
2018-01-01 Changed AMA guideline added.
2012-01-01 Changed Description Changed
2011-11-30 Changed Corrected spelling of vagus, per Corrections Notice 2012
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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