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An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a diagnostic procedure that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain. This specific procedure, identified by CPT® Code 95953, involves the use of a computerized portable EEG system with 16 or more channels to monitor and localize the cerebral seizure focus. The EEG captures electrical current potentials generated by nerve cells in the brain, allowing for the analysis of variations in wave characteristics that may indicate the presence of seizure activity. The procedure is designed to be performed on an outpatient basis, utilizing a portable, ambulatory recording device that enables long-term monitoring of brain activity while the patient engages in their normal daily activities. During the procedure, electrodes, or leads, are strategically placed on the scalp to detect electrical signals. These leads are connected to a miniature recording device, which is typically worn on a belt or shoulder harness. This setup allows for continuous recording of brain activity over an extended period, often for several days. Once the recording period is complete, the patient returns to the facility, where the leads and recording device are removed. The physician then downloads the recorded data onto a computer for detailed evaluation and interpretation, ultimately generating a written report of the findings. It is important to report CPT® Code 95953 for each 24-hour period of monitoring conducted during this procedure.
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The procedure is indicated for the localization of cerebral seizure focus in patients who may be experiencing seizures. It is particularly useful for those who require long-term monitoring to identify the specific areas of the brain responsible for seizure activity. This procedure is often performed when standard EEGs do not provide sufficient information for diagnosis or treatment planning.
The procedure begins with the placement of EEG leads on the patient's scalp. These leads are positioned according to standardized locations to ensure accurate recording of brain activity. Once the leads are securely attached, they are connected to a portable EEG recording device. This device is designed to be worn comfortably by the patient, typically around the waist or shoulder, using a belt or harness. Before the recording begins, the technician tests the leads and the recording device to confirm that they are functioning properly. After confirming the equipment is operational, the recording device is activated, and the EEG begins. The patient is then allowed to leave the facility and continue with their daily activities while the EEG records brain activity continuously for the prescribed duration, which can extend over several days. This unattended monitoring allows for the capture of spontaneous seizure events in a naturalistic setting. At the conclusion of the monitoring period, the patient returns to the facility, where the technician removes the leads and the recording device. The physician then downloads the recorded EEG data onto a computer for analysis. This analysis involves evaluating the electrical activity captured during the monitoring period to identify any abnormal patterns indicative of seizure activity. Finally, the physician prepares a written report summarizing the findings and interpretations of the EEG recordings.
After the procedure, patients may resume their normal activities immediately, as there are typically no restrictions following the removal of the EEG leads and recording device. The physician will review the recorded data and provide a detailed report of the findings, which may include recommendations for further evaluation or treatment based on the identified seizure focus. Patients may be scheduled for follow-up appointments to discuss the results and any necessary next steps in their care plan.
| Short Descr | EEG MONITORING/COMPUTER | Medium Descr | LOCALIZE CEREBRAL SEIZURE CPTR PORTABLE EEG | Long Descr | Monitoring for localization of cerebral seizure focus by computerized portable 16 or more channel EEG, electroencephalographic (EEG) recording and interpretation, each 24 hours, unattended | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No 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) | 0 - 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 | Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 199 - Electroencephalogram (EEG) |
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| 2019-12-31 | Deleted | Code deleted. To report, see 95700–95726. See Long-Term EEG Monitoring Table for guidance. |
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Long description revised. Medium description changed. |
| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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