CPT code 62190 covers surgical placement of a cerebrospinal fluid shunt to drain subarachnoid or subdural fluid into a cardiac atrial chamber, the jugular vein, or a heart auricle. This neurosurgical procedure is clinically significant because it addresses elevated intracranial pressure and symptomatic hydrocephalus, conditions with potential for acute neurologic deterioration and long-term disability if untreated. Nationally, management of cerebrospinal fluid disorders represents a critical intersection of surgical care, device use, and payer coverage policy.

Key payers referenced include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical intent and typical settings for the service, followed by benchmarking and coverage perspectives where available. The publication highlights common billing modifiers associated with surgical services, outlines expected sites of service, and summarizes the clinical context for when a shunt to a cardiac or jugular destination is used.

Intended takeaways include understanding what CPT code 62190 represents, the clinical scenarios that prompt its use, how major payers approach this category of neurosurgical devices and procedures, and where to look for policy or reimbursement guidance. Data not available in the input will be explicitly noted in relevant sections.