CPT® Code 64891

A nerve graft procedure involves the surgical repair of a damaged nerve in the hand or foot using a single strand of nerve tissue. This technique is employed to facilitate a tension-free repair of the injured nerve, which is crucial for restoring proper nerve function. During the procedure, the surgeon first exposes the injured nerve and assesses the extent of the damage. If necessary, any damaged tissue is carefully removed through a process known as debridement. To evaluate the function of the nerve, additional nerve testing and monitoring may be performed, which are reported separately. The procedure also involves the use of microscopic visualization to ensure precision. The healthy segments of the nerve, both proximal and distal to the injury, are meticulously dissected from the surrounding tissue. The length of the required nerve graft is then determined. A single strand nerve graft is harvested from a donor site, where the donor nerve is exposed, and the desired length is carefully dissected free. After the graft is obtained, it is divided at both ends and prepared for implantation. The graft is then sutured end-to-end to the severed ends of the injured nerve, allowing for reconnection. Finally, the overlying soft tissues and skin are repaired in layers to complete the procedure. It is important to note that this code, CPT® 64891, is specifically used when the length of the nerve graft exceeds 4 cm, while CPT® 64890 is applicable for grafts that are 4 cm or less.