CPT® Code 64612

Chemodenervation is a medical procedure that involves the targeted injection of a substance, typically botulinum toxin, into specific muscles that are controlled by the facial nerve. This procedure is performed unilaterally, meaning it is applied to one side of the face. The primary purpose of chemodenervation is to alleviate involuntary muscle contractions or spasms, which can be debilitating and affect a person's quality of life. Common conditions treated with this procedure include blepharospasm, characterized by involuntary blinking or eyelid spasms, and hemifacial spasm, which involves involuntary contractions of the muscles on one side of the face. During the procedure, the physician identifies the specific muscles that require treatment, which can be done through techniques such as electromyography or by manually examining and palpating the facial muscles to locate the areas of spasm. Once the appropriate muscles are identified, the physician prepares the treatment area and administers the botulinum toxin injection at precise sites within the affected muscle or muscle group. The botulinum toxin works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction, thereby inducing temporary muscle paralysis. This interruption in neuromuscular transmission helps to reduce or eliminate the involuntary muscle movements associated with the conditions being treated.