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Official Description

Nerve graft, each additional nerve; multiple strands (cable) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 64902 refers to the procedure of performing a nerve graft for each additional nerve using multiple strands, also known as a cable graft. This code is specifically utilized when there is a need to repair additional nerves following the primary nerve repair, which is reported separately. The process begins with the exposure of the injured nerve, where the extent of the nerve damage is carefully evaluated. If necessary, any damaged tissue is debrided to prepare the site for grafting. To assess nerve function, nerve testing and monitoring may be conducted, which are reported separately. The procedure involves meticulous dissection of the healthy proximal and distal segments of the nerve, ensuring that they are free from surrounding tissue. The length of the nerve graft is then determined based on the specific requirements of the repair. Harvesting the nerve graft involves exposing the donor nerve and dissecting it to the desired length, after which it is divided proximally and distally. The graft is then sutured end-to-end to the severed ends of the injured nerve, utilizing either single or multiple strands as indicated. Finally, the overlying soft tissues and skin are repaired in layers to complete the procedure. It is important to note that CPT® Code 64901 should be used for each additional nerve repaired with a single strand graft, while CPT® Code 64902 is designated for those repaired with a multiple strand graft.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 64902 is indicated for the repair of additional nerves that have been injured and require grafting following the primary nerve repair. The specific indications for this procedure include:

  • Multiple Nerve Injuries Repair of multiple injured nerves that necessitate the use of additional grafts for effective restoration of nerve function.
  • Severe Nerve Damage Cases where the nerve has sustained significant damage, requiring grafting to facilitate proper healing and function.
  • Post-Surgical Repair Situations where additional nerve repairs are needed after the initial nerve has been addressed, ensuring comprehensive treatment of nerve injuries.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 64902 involves several critical steps to ensure successful nerve grafting. The steps are as follows:

  • Step 1: Exposure of the Injured Nerve The first step involves surgically exposing the injured nerve to assess the extent of the damage. This evaluation is crucial for determining the appropriate course of action for repair.
  • Step 2: Debridement of Damaged Tissue If there is any damaged tissue surrounding the nerve, it is carefully debrided to create a clean area for the grafting procedure. This step is essential to promote healing and prevent complications.
  • Step 3: Nerve Function Evaluation Separately reportable nerve testing and monitoring may be performed to evaluate the function of the nerve. This assessment helps in planning the grafting procedure effectively.
  • Step 4: Dissection of Healthy Nerve Segments Using microscopic visualization, the healthy proximal and distal segments of the nerve are meticulously dissected free from surrounding tissue. This dissection is critical for ensuring that the graft can be properly attached.
  • Step 5: Harvesting the Nerve Graft The nerve graft is harvested from a suitable donor site. The donor nerve is exposed, and the desired length is dissected free from surrounding tissue. The graft is then divided proximally and distally for use in the repair.
  • Step 6: Suturing the Graft Single or multiple strands of the harvested donor nerve are sutured end-to-end to the severed ends of the injured nerve. This step is vital for re-establishing continuity and function of the nerve.
  • Step 7: Repair of Overlying Tissues Finally, the overlying soft tissues and skin are repaired in layers to complete the surgical procedure, ensuring proper closure and healing of the surgical site.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the nerve grafting procedure, appropriate post-operative care is essential for optimal recovery. Patients may require monitoring for signs of nerve function restoration and any potential complications. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled to assess the healing process and the effectiveness of the nerve repair. Rehabilitation may also be necessary to support recovery and improve functional outcomes. The specific recovery timeline can vary based on the extent of the nerve injury and the individual patient's healing response.

Short Descr NERVE GRAFT ADD-ON
Medium Descr NERVE GRAFT EACH NERVE MULTIPLE STRANDS
Long Descr Nerve graft, each additional nerve; multiple strands (cable) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
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) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
ASC Payment Indicator Packaged service/item; no separate payment made.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P5E - Ambulatory procedures - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures

This is an add-on code that must be used in conjunction with one of these primary codes.

64885 MPFS Status: Active Code APC J1 ASC A2 CPT Assistant Article Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), head or neck; up to 4 cm in length
64886 MPFS Status: Active Code APC J1 ASC J8 CPT Assistant Article Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), head or neck; more than 4 cm length
64895 MPFS Status: Active Code APC J1 ASC A2 CPT Assistant Article Illustration for Code Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), multiple strands (cable), hand or foot; up to 4 cm length
64896 MPFS Status: Active Code APC J1 ASC A2 Illustration for Code Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), multiple strands (cable), hand or foot; more than 4 cm length
64897 MPFS Status: Active Code APC J1 ASC G2 Illustration for Code Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), multiple strands (cable), arm or leg; up to 4 cm length
64898 MPFS Status: Active Code APC J1 ASC A2 CPT Assistant Article Illustration for Code Nerve graft (includes obtaining graft), multiple strands (cable), arm or leg; more than 4 cm length
62 Two surgeons: when 2 surgeons work together as primary surgeons performing distinct part(s) of a procedure, each surgeon should report his/her distinct operative work by adding modifier 62 to the procedure code and any associated add-on code(s) for that procedure as long as both surgeons continue to work together as primary surgeons. each surgeon should report the co-surgery once using the same procedure code. if additional procedure(s) (including add-on procedure(s) are performed during the same surgical session, separate code(s) may also be reported with modifier 62 added. note: if a co-surgeon acts as an assistant in the performance of additional procedure(s), other than those reported with the modifier 62, during the same surgical session, those services may be reported using separate procedure code(s) with modifier 80 or modifier 82 added, as appropriate.
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
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
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