Summary & Overview
CPT 69717: Bone-Anchored Auditory Implant Replacement
CPT code 69717 denotes the surgical replacement of a bone-anchored, percutaneously coupled skull implant that transmits sound energy to the inner ear. Nationally, this procedure is important for patients with conductive or mixed hearing loss or single-sided deafness who rely on implanted bone-conduction systems; replacement procedures preserve device function and patient access to auditory rehabilitation. Payers nationwide cover such surgical services under a mix of commercial and government plans, with notable coverage policies from Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare.
This publication provides a concise overview of clinical context, typical sites of service, and the payer landscape for CPT code 69717. Readers will find benchmarks and policy-relevant information where available, a summary of common billing modifiers and coding considerations, and guidance on how this service fits into broader auditory implant care pathways. The report is intended for coding professionals, surgical providers, and policy analysts seeking a national-level briefing on coding and coverage dynamics for bone-anchored auditory implant replacement.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 69717 describes the replacement of a bone-anchored implant in the skull that converts sound energy for reception by the inner ear. This procedure pertains to devices that are percutaneously coupled to a speech processor through a small opening in the skin.
-
Service type: Surgical implant replacement involving an osseointegrated, bone-anchored auditory device.
-
Typical site of service: Operating room or ambulatory surgical center with provisions for head and skull implant surgery and postoperative monitoring.
Data not available in the input.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is an adult with conductive or mixed hearing loss who previously received a percutaneous bone-anchored implant (osseointegrated device) and now presents for replacement of the implanted abutment or internal component due to device failure, extrusion, infection, wear, or upgrade. The clinical workflow begins with preoperative assessment in an otology or neurotology clinic, including otologic exam, audiometry, and imaging as needed. Indications for revision/replacement are reviewed and informed consent obtained. On the day of service the patient undergoes sterile preparation and local or general anesthesia depending on complexity and patient factors. The surgeon exposes the skull implant site through the percutaneous opening, removes and replaces the failed implant or internal component attached to the percutaneous abutment that couples to the external speech processor, confirms stable fixation and wound closure, and documents device model and serial number. Postoperative care includes dressing changes, follow-up wound checks, device activation or programming with an audiologist once healing is sufficient, and documentation of any intraoperative complications or additional procedures.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
00 | Procedure furnished as defined by payer | Use only where a payor requires reporting of a default modifier; rarely used in Medicare billing. |