CPT® Code 0639T

Wireless skin sensor thermal anisotropy measurement(s) and assessment of flow in cerebrospinal fluid shunt, including ultrasound guidance, when performed

The CPT® Code 0639T refers to a procedure involving the use of a wireless skin sensor to measure thermal anisotropy and assess the flow in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts. This procedure is particularly relevant for patients diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. To manage this condition, a shunt system is typically implanted to facilitate the drainage of excess fluid. However, diagnosing malfunctions in these shunt systems can be challenging, as traditional diagnostic methods such as CT scans, MRI, nuclear medicine imaging, or exploratory surgery may be required to assess shunt patency. The wireless monitoring system described in this code offers a noninvasive alternative, allowing for continuous monitoring of CSF flow and shunt functionality. The system comprises a small, flexible skin sensor that adheres to the skin surface, typically located at the neck or clavicle where the shunt is most accessible. This sensor contains a thin, flexible circuit board equipped with thermal sensors, actuators, and a Bluetooth low-energy chip that enables data transmission to a smartphone application. The thermal actuator generates a controlled increase in temperature at the skin surface, and the resulting temperature variations downstream and upstream from the actuator are recorded. These measurements are crucial for calculating the flow of CSF through the shunt, providing valuable insights into its operational status without the need for invasive procedures.