Targeted, Named Nerve, Direct PNS With SPRINT Wrongly Axed by USPI
USPI Leadership,
As pain management physicians affiliated with USPI facilities have been informed that the SPRINT PNS System may no longer be implanted where we operate. We are incensed to have this removed from our treatment options.
The SPRINT PNS has become an important part of our practice and treatment algorithm for the management of chronic pain. The procedure has been provided to over 20,000 patients without any known issues regarding coding or claw-back and has even passed RAC audits without incident.
The procedure is accurately described as percutaneous implantation of a PNS lead and well defined by CPT 64555 as evidenced by the support offered by multiple pain specialty societies. This procedure is not transcutaneous as described in the recent announcement.
Answer · GPT-4
The code descriptor for CPT code 64555 is "Percutaneous implantation of neurostimulator electrode array; peripheral nerve (excludes sacral nerve)" This code refers to a surgical procedure involving the percutaneous implantation of a neurostimulator electrode array on a peripheral nerve, excluding the sacral nerve.
We respectfully request that you immediately restore our access to the SPRINT PNS System.
Much Appreciated,
W. Porter McRoberts MD, FABPMR, ABPMR Pain
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
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