BETA v.3.0

2025 CPT code 89352

Thawing of cryopreserved embryo(s).

Use this code only for the thawing process. Do not use this code for the cryopreservation or storage of embryos. If additional procedures are performed on the thawed embryos (like biopsy or culture), use the appropriate codes in addition to 89352.

Modifiers may be applicable in certain situations, such as modifier 91 for repeat thawing procedures or modifier 79 if the thawing is unrelated to a previous procedure.

Medical necessity is dependent upon the clinical indication for thawing the embryos. This could include infertility treatment, delayed childbearing, or preservation of fertility prior to cancer treatment.

The lab analyst performs the technical steps of thawing the embryos, including warming, washing, and incubating them in a nutrient solution.This is typically ordered by a clinician specializing in reproductive medicine and infertility treatments.

IMPORTANT:For cryopreservation, use 89258. For storage, use 89342. If the provider cultures the embryos after thawing, use 89250, 89251, or 89272.

In simple words: This procedure thaws frozen embryos that were stored for later use.The embryos are carefully warmed, cleaned, and placed in a special solution to help them grow before being transferred to the woman's uterus.

This code represents the laboratory procedure for thawing one or more cryopreserved embryos. The process involves carefully warming the embryos, removing the cryoprotective agents, and placing them in a nutrient solution to prepare them for transfer to the uterus.It's important to note that this code is distinct from cryopreservation (89258) and storage (89342).

Example 1: A patient undergoing IVF has embryos cryopreserved for future use.When ready, the embryos are thawed using code 89352., A woman who needs cancer therapy has embryos cryopreserved prior to treatment. After recovery, the embryos are thawed for implantation., A patient undergoes in vitro fertilization (IVF) and has excess embryos cryopreserved. Later, they choose to use the stored embryos, which are thawed using this code.

Documentation should include the number of embryos thawed, the date of the procedure, and confirmation of the patient's identity. Medical records should also include relevant information regarding the prior cryopreservation and the indication for thawing.

** Survival rates for thawed embryos are generally high, approaching 95-100%, however survival is not guaranteed. The duration of cryopreservation generally does not have a negative impact on survival rates. The success of pregnancy after embryo transfer depends on multiple factors and is not guaranteed by the thawing procedure itself.

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