95955 is a specific Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) code utilized within the medical billing and coding system. It precisely identifies and describes a medical procedure: the performance of an electroencephalogram (EEG) during a non-intracranial surgical operation.
Understanding CPT Code 95955
CPT codes, maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA), are a standardized set of numerical codes used by healthcare professionals to report medical, surgical, and diagnostic services to insurance companies and other payers. These codes ensure consistent communication and accurate billing across the healthcare industry.
The CPT code 95955 specifically refers to:
- Procedure: Electroencephalogram (EEG)
- Context: Performed during non-intracranial surgery
- Purpose: Often used for Grid Monitoring and Intraoperative Electroencephalography.
Here's a breakdown of its key components:
| CPT Code | Description | Purpose/Context |
|---|---|---|
| 95955 | Electroencephalogram (EEG) during non-intracranial surgery | Grid Monitoring and Intraoperative Electroencephalography |
What is an Electroencephalogram (EEG)?
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a neurophysiological test that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain. During an EEG, small metal discs with thin wires (electrodes) are placed on the scalp. These electrodes detect tiny electrical charges that result from the activity of brain cells. The recorded patterns of brain waves can help diagnose various neurological conditions. For general information on medical coding, you can refer to resources like the American Medical Association.
Why is EEG Used During Non-Intracranial Surgery?
While "non-intracranial surgery" means the operation is not directly on the brain itself, procedures in areas like the neck (e.g., carotid arteries) or major blood vessels can still pose a risk to cerebral blood flow or neurological function. Intraoperative EEG monitoring (like that covered by 95955) plays a crucial role in enhancing patient safety during such surgeries.
Examples of when 95955 might be applied include:
- Carotid Endarterectomy: This is a common non-intracranial surgery explicitly mentioned in the context of 95955. During this procedure, plaque is removed from the carotid arteries in the neck to prevent stroke. EEG monitoring helps surgeons assess brain function and detect any signs of reduced blood flow or ischemia to the brain in real-time, allowing for immediate intervention.
- Other Vascular Surgeries: Procedures involving major blood vessels that supply the brain, even if outside the skull, might utilize intraoperative EEG to monitor brain activity and ensure adequate cerebral perfusion throughout the operation.
Benefits of Intraoperative EEG Monitoring:
- Early Detection: It provides immediate feedback on the brain's electrical activity, allowing surgeons to detect subtle changes that might indicate compromised blood flow or neurological distress before permanent damage occurs.
- Surgical Guidance: The real-time data from the EEG can guide surgical decisions, such as the need for shunting during carotid surgery, to protect brain function.
- Enhanced Patient Safety: By minimizing the risk of neurological complications, intraoperative EEG contributes significantly to safer surgical outcomes.
In essence, CPT code 95955 represents a critical diagnostic and monitoring service that aids in protecting brain health during specific surgeries, even when the surgical field is not directly within the cranial cavity.
