CPT® Code 15845

The procedure described by CPT® Code 15845 involves the use of a graft to address facial nerve paralysis through a technique known as regional muscle transfer. In this context, a graft refers to a piece of tissue that is surgically removed from one part of the body and transplanted to another area to restore function or appearance. Specifically, the fascia, which is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, is typically harvested from the fascia lata, located in the leg. This harvested graft is then carefully transplanted to the facial region, where it is sutured beneath the skin. The primary goal of this procedure is to partially reanimate areas of the face that have been affected by paralysis, thereby improving facial movement and aesthetics. It is important to note that this code is specifically designated for cases where a regional muscle transfer is performed, distinguishing it from other related procedures that may involve free muscle grafts or free muscle flaps utilizing microsurgical techniques, which are coded differently (CPT® Codes 15841 and 15842, respectively).