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Official Description

Incision for implantation of neurostimulator electrodes; autonomic nerve

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 64577 involves the surgical implantation of neurostimulator electrodes into an autonomic nerve. Autonomic nerves are part of the peripheral nervous system and control involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. The implantation process begins with the preparation of the insertion site, which includes cleaning and sterilizing the area to minimize the risk of infection. A surgical incision is made in the skin, and the underlying soft tissues are carefully dissected to reveal the targeted autonomic nerve. Once the nerve is exposed, a neurostimulator electrode is positioned adjacent to it. This electrode is crucial for delivering electrical stimulation to the nerve, which can help modulate its activity. After positioning the electrode, electrical stimulation is applied to assess the nerve's responses. This step is critical, as it allows the surgeon to evaluate the effectiveness of the electrode placement. If the desired nerve responses are not achieved, the electrode may be repositioned and retested multiple times. Once optimal placement is confirmed, the electrode is secured in place and tunneled to a generator or receiver, which is implanted in a separate procedure. Finally, the surgical site is closed in layers to ensure proper healing and protection of the underlying structures.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure for the implantation of neurostimulator electrodes into an autonomic nerve is indicated for various conditions that may benefit from modulation of autonomic nerve activity. These indications may include:

  • Chronic Pain Management The procedure may be performed to alleviate chronic pain conditions that are resistant to conventional treatments.
  • Autonomic Dysregulation Patients experiencing symptoms related to autonomic dysregulation, such as severe gastrointestinal disorders or cardiovascular issues, may be candidates for this procedure.
  • Neuropathic Pain Individuals suffering from neuropathic pain syndromes may benefit from the modulation of nerve activity through neurostimulation.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the implantation of neurostimulator electrodes into an autonomic nerve involves several critical steps, each designed to ensure the accurate placement and functionality of the electrode.

  • Step 1: Preparation of the Insertion Site The surgical area is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection. This preparation is essential for maintaining a sterile environment during the procedure.
  • Step 2: Incision and Dissection A surgical incision is made in the skin over the planned insertion site. The surgeon carefully dissects the soft tissues to expose the targeted autonomic nerve, ensuring minimal damage to surrounding structures.
  • Step 3: Electrode Positioning Once the nerve is exposed, the neurostimulator electrode is positioned adjacent to the autonomic nerve. This placement is crucial for effective stimulation and requires precision to ensure optimal nerve interaction.
  • Step 4: Electrical Stimulation and Evaluation After positioning the electrode, electrical stimulation is applied to the nerve. The surgeon evaluates the nerve's responses to determine if the electrode is functioning correctly. This step may involve adjusting the electrode's position and retesting until the desired responses are achieved.
  • Step 5: Securing the Electrode Once optimal placement is confirmed, the electrode is secured in place. It is then tunneled to the generator or receiver, which will be implanted in a separate procedure.
  • Step 6: Closure of the Surgical Site The final step involves closing the incision in layers to promote healing and protect the underlying structures. This layered closure is important for minimizing complications and ensuring proper recovery.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, patients may require monitoring for any immediate complications, such as infection or bleeding. Post-operative care typically includes pain management and instructions for activity restrictions to promote healing. Patients may also need follow-up appointments to assess the functionality of the implanted electrode and make any necessary adjustments to the stimulation settings. It is essential for patients to adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by their healthcare provider to ensure optimal recovery and effectiveness of the neurostimulator.

Short Descr IMPLANT NEUROELECTRODES
Medium Descr INC IMPLTJ NSTIM ELTRDS AUTONOMIC NRV
Long Descr Incision for implantation of neurostimulator electrodes; autonomic nerve
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard 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) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Discontinued Code
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2012-01-01 Deleted Deleted
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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