CPT® Code 0663T

Add-On Code

Scalp cooling, mechanical; placement of device, monitoring, and removal of device (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Scalp cooling therapy is a specialized procedure designed to mitigate hair loss associated with chemotherapy treatments. This therapy employs a mechanical device, commonly referred to as a scalp cooling cap, which is strategically placed on the patient's head. The primary mechanism of action involves the cooling of the scalp, which leads to the constriction of blood vessels. This vasoconstriction effectively reduces blood flow to the hair follicles, thereby limiting the amount of chemotherapy drugs that can enter these cells. Since chemotherapy targets all rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicle cells, the use of a cooling cap can significantly decrease the likelihood of hair loss, which typically manifests approximately two weeks after the commencement of chemotherapy. This procedure is particularly beneficial for women undergoing treatment for breast cancer, as it can help preserve their hair, thereby enhancing their self-esteem and maintaining their privacy during a challenging time. The cooling cap is constructed from flexible silicone and is filled with a coolant that circulates through it, ensuring a consistent temperature around 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The cap is worn for a total of approximately two hours: 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy, during the infusion, and for up to 90 minutes afterward. It is important to note that the initial personal measurement and calibration of the cap, which is a separate service, is reported using CPT® Code 0662T, while CPT® Code 0663T is used to report the placement, monitoring, and removal of the cooling cap during each chemotherapy session.