CPT® Code 99116

Anesthesia complicated by utilization of total body hypothermia (List separately in addition to code for primary anesthesia procedure)

The CPT® Code 99116 is utilized to indicate a specific circumstance that complicates the administration of anesthesia, namely the use of total body hypothermia. This code is not intended to be reported independently; rather, it must be used in conjunction with the primary anesthesia procedure codes. Total body hypothermia involves a deliberate and controlled reduction of the body's temperature, which serves to slow down the overall metabolism of tissues. This reduction in temperature is particularly significant as it lowers the metabolic rate for essential processes such as glucose and oxygen utilization. The application of total body hypothermia is commonly seen in high-risk surgical scenarios, including cardiac surgeries and procedures addressing traumatic brain injuries. The presence of hypothermia introduces additional operative condition risk factors that must be considered when providing anesthesia, thereby affecting the overall anesthesia service delivered to the patient.