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Code deleted, see 95976, 95977

Official Description

complex cranial nerve neurostimulator pulse generator/transmitter, with intraoperative or subsequent programming, with or without nerve interface testing, first hour

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A complex cranial nerve neurostimulator generator/transmitter is a sophisticated medical device designed to deliver electrical impulses to cranial nerves for therapeutic purposes. This system includes a pulse generator that is surgically implanted in a subcutaneous pocket, along with electrical leads that are carefully tunneled from the targeted nerve to the generator. The primary function of this neurostimulator is to treat various medical conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, and depression, by modulating nerve activity through electrical stimulation. The complexity of the neurostimulator system is characterized by its ability to influence multiple parameters, such as pulse amplitude, pulse duration, pulse frequency, and the number of electrode contacts, among others. Specifically, a complex neurostimulator system is defined as one that affects more than three of the following parameters: pulse amplitude, pulse duration, pulse frequency, eight or more electrode contacts, cycling, stimulation train duration, train spacing, number of programs, number of channels, alternating electrode polarities, dose time, and the treatment of more than one clinical feature, such as rigidity, dyskinesia, or tremor. Regular evaluations of the neurostimulator are essential to ensure its proper functioning, confirm that the desired therapeutic outcomes are being achieved, and check that the programmed settings remain optimal. During these evaluations, various device parameters are assessed, including the rate of stimulation, pulse amplitude and duration, waveform configuration, battery status, electrode selectability, output modulation, cycling, impedance, and patient compliance. Following the evaluation, the device is programmed to meet the specific needs of the patient. This programming can occur either during the initial surgical procedure or at a later follow-up appointment. For the initial hour of evaluation and programming, the appropriate code to use is 95974, while 95975 should be used for each additional 30 minutes of service.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The complex cranial nerve neurostimulator pulse generator/transmitter is indicated for use in patients experiencing a variety of conditions that may benefit from electrical stimulation of cranial nerves. These conditions include:

  • Chronic Pain - Patients suffering from persistent pain that has not responded to conventional treatments may be candidates for neurostimulation therapy.
  • Epilepsy - Individuals with epilepsy who have not achieved adequate seizure control through medication may benefit from cranial nerve stimulation.
  • Depression - Patients with treatment-resistant depression may be considered for neurostimulation as an alternative therapeutic option.

2. Procedure

The procedure for evaluating and programming a complex cranial nerve neurostimulator pulse generator/transmitter involves several critical steps:

  • Step 1: Device Evaluation - The first step involves a thorough evaluation of the implanted neurostimulator system. This includes checking the functionality of the device to ensure it is operating correctly. Parameters such as the rate of stimulation, pulse amplitude, pulse duration, and battery status are assessed to confirm that the device is delivering the intended therapeutic effects.
  • Step 2: Parameter Assessment - During the evaluation, additional parameters are examined, including the configuration of the waveform, electrode selectability, output modulation, cycling, and impedance. This comprehensive assessment helps to identify any necessary adjustments to optimize the device's performance.
  • Step 3: Programming the Device - After the evaluation, the device is programmed according to the specific needs of the patient. This programming may involve adjusting settings such as pulse frequency, pulse duration, and the number of channels used for stimulation. The goal is to tailor the neurostimulation therapy to achieve the best possible outcomes for the patient's condition.
  • Step 4: Intraoperative or Subsequent Programming - The programming can be performed either during the initial surgical implantation of the device or at a later follow-up appointment. Intraoperative programming allows for immediate adjustments based on the patient's response, while subsequent programming provides an opportunity to refine settings based on ongoing evaluations.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients with a complex cranial nerve neurostimulator involves monitoring the device's performance and the patient's response to therapy. Patients are typically advised to follow up regularly to ensure that the device is functioning correctly and to make any necessary adjustments to the programming. It is essential to assess the effectiveness of the neurostimulation in managing the patient's symptoms and to check the battery status to determine if replacement is needed. Additionally, patients should be educated on compliance with the therapy and any potential side effects or complications that may arise from the use of the neurostimulator. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for ongoing evaluation and optimization of the treatment plan.

Short Descr CRANIAL NEUROSTIM COMPLEX
Medium Descr ELEC ALYS NSTIM PLS GEN CPLX CRNL NRV 1ST HR
Long Descr complex cranial nerve neurostimulator pulse generator/transmitter, with intraoperative or subsequent programming, with or without nerve interface testing, first hour
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
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
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 7 - Other diagnostic nervous system procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2019-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 95976, 95977
2012-01-01 Changed Description Changed
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
1999-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1999.
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