CPT® Code 88362

The CPT® Code 88362 refers to a specialized laboratory procedure known as nerve teasing preparations. This procedure is essential for the pathological examination of peripheral nerve fibers. During the process, a segment of peripheral nerve, which may include the sural nerve, superficial peroneal sensory nerve, or other types of nerves, is obtained through a biopsy that is reported separately. The preparation involves staining the nerve and suspending it in glycerin, which is then placed on a glass slide that has an adhesive surface. Using fine forceps and a stereomicroscope, the technician meticulously separates the nerve into small bundles of fibers. Following this, individual nerve fibers are isolated in a proximodistal orientation, allowing for detailed examination. Once the slide is prepared, it is allowed to dry and is subsequently mounted with a glycerin-gelatin cover. This meticulous preparation enables pathologists to evaluate the distribution of myelinated fibers, assess the lengths of these fibers, observe the staining of Schwann cells, and identify any abnormalities present in the myelin and axons. The nerve teasing preparation is particularly valuable in diagnosing various conditions, including demyelinating diseases, peripheral nerve vasculitis, inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathies, leprous neuropathy, amyloid neuropathy, hereditary neuropathies, and sarcoid neuropathies.