CPT® Code 92565

The Stenger test, identified by CPT® Code 92565, is a specialized auditory assessment utilized to evaluate hearing capabilities through pure tone audiometry. This test is conducted using earphones, allowing for a controlled environment where each ear is tested both separately and in conjunction. The primary objective of the Stenger test is to ascertain the hearing threshold for each ear, which is the minimum sound level at which a patient can detect a tone. During the procedure, a tone is presented at the determined hearing threshold to each ear individually. The patient is then prompted to indicate whether they perceive the tone in the right or left ear. In individuals with normal hearing or those experiencing functional hearing loss, the expected response is that a tone delivered to the right ear will be heard in that ear, and similarly for the left ear. When tones are delivered simultaneously to both ears at the hearing threshold, the sound is typically perceived centrally, provided that the sensitivity levels of both ears are equal. However, if there is a disparity in sensitivity levels, the sound will be perceived in the ear with the higher sensitivity until the intensity in the less sensitive ear is adjusted to match its hearing threshold. In cases of nonorganic hearing loss, which may be psychogenic or feigned, the results of the Stenger test will deviate from the anticipated pattern. This test is often integrated with other pure tone assessments, and it is designed in such a way that the patient remains unaware that the purpose is to differentiate between functional and nonorganic hearing loss. The outcomes of the Stenger test are documented on an audiogram, accompanied by a written interpretation of the findings to provide a comprehensive overview of the patient's auditory status.