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2025 CPT code 64722

Decompression of unspecified nerve(s); requires specification of the nerve(s) decompressed.

Always specify the nerve(s) decompressed in the operative report to ensure accurate coding and reimbursement.Use appropriate modifiers if additional procedures are performed.

Modifiers may apply depending on the circumstances of the procedure (e.g., multiple procedures, bilateral procedures). Consult the CPT manual for appropriate modifier usage.

Medical necessity is established by clinical findings indicating nerve compression leading to demonstrable symptoms (e.g., pain, paresthesia, weakness).The chosen surgical approach should be justified based on the specific anatomical location and extent of compression. Pre-operative non-surgical treatment modalities should be considered and documented.

The surgeon's responsibilities include pre-operative assessment, surgical decompression of the specified nerve(s), meticulous hemostasis, and closure of the incision. Post-operative care instructions and follow-up are also the surgeon's responsibility.

IMPORTANT:For percutaneous neurolysis, use codes 62263, 62264, 62280-62282. For internal neurolysis requiring use of an operating microscope, use code 64727. For facial nerve decompression, use code 69720. For neuroplasty with nerve wrapping, use codes 64702-64727, 64999. For intracranial surgery on cranial nerves, use codes 61450, 61460, 61790.

In simple words: This code describes a surgery to release pressure on a nerve.The doctor cuts away tissue squeezing the nerve to improve its function.The specific nerve treated must be clearly noted in the medical record.

This CPT code, 64722, represents the surgical decompression of one or more unspecified nerves.The procedure involves freeing the nerve(s) from surrounding tissues that are causing compression.Accurate documentation is crucial, mandating explicit identification of the specific nerve(s) decompressed and the rationale for the procedure.The surgeon makes an incision to access the compressed nerve, dissects the constricting tissue to relieve pressure, and then closes the incision. This code should not be used for internal neurolysis requiring a microscope (use 64727), percutaneous neurolysis (use 62263, 62264, 62280-62282), facial nerve decompression (use 69720), or neuroplasty with nerve wrapping (use 64702-64727, 64999).

Example 1: A patient presents with carpal tunnel syndrome.The surgeon performs a decompression of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel., A patient experiences ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow.Surgical decompression of the ulnar nerve is performed., A patient with tarsal tunnel syndrome undergoes surgical decompression of the posterior tibial nerve.

* Operative report detailing the specific nerve(s) decompressed.* Pre-operative imaging (e.g., nerve conduction studies, ultrasound, MRI) demonstrating nerve compression.* Intraoperative findings.* Post-operative assessment and plan.

** This code is frequently used in conjunction with other nerve-related codes. Proper documentation is crucial for accurate coding and to avoid potential audit issues.Always cross-reference with current NCCI edits and payer-specific guidelines.

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