Summary & Overview
CPT 89291: Oocyte Polar Body or Embryo Blastomere Biopsy for PGD
CPT code 89291 covers the laboratory microtechnique biopsy of oocyte polar bodies or embryo blastomeres for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) when performed on more than five embryos. This code captures a specialized embryology laboratory service that supports reproductive genetics and assisted reproductive technology (ART) workflows. Nationally, the procedure matters because it underpins clinical decision-making in IVF cycles where genetic assessment prior to transfer can affect outcomes and resource utilization.
Key payers in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise explanation of the clinical service represented by the code, typical sites where the service is delivered, and the payer landscape covered. The publication summarizes coding context, common billing modifiers provided in the input, and what to expect in claims processing for specialized embryology laboratory services.
The piece also outlines where to look for benchmarks, policy updates, and clinical context relevant to PGD-associated laboratory procedures. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable, and the content focuses on national implications for coverage, billing practices, and the role of this microtechnique biopsy in ART care pathways.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 89291 describes a laboratory microtechnique biopsy of oocyte polar bodies or embryo blastomeres for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) when the service involves greater than five embryos. The procedure is performed by a lab analyst using micromanipulation to obtain cellular material for genetic testing prior to embryo transfer.
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Service type: Laboratory microtechnique biopsy for PGD
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Typical site of service: Assisted reproduction laboratory or specialized embryology laboratory within a fertility clinic or hospital-based reproductive medicine unit
Data not available in the input.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 36-year-old patient undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) presents for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). Following ovarian stimulation and retrieval, embryology laboratory staff culture and monitor embryos. On day 3 (cleavage-stage) or day 5 (blastocyst-stage) embryos selected for genetic analysis undergo biopsy. For this encounter the laboratory analyst performs microtechnique biopsy of greater than five embryos, obtaining oocyte polar bodies or embryo blastomeres for genetic testing using micromanipulation and micropipette systems. The workflow includes embryo preparation under an inverted microscope, immobilization, removal of zona pellucida if required, aspiration of blastomeres or polar body biopsy, labeling and preservation of samples, and transfer of biopsied embryos to culture. Specimens are sent to the genetics lab for PGD/PGS analysis. Typical site of service is an assisted reproduction clinic or hospital-based embryology laboratory with specialized micromanipulation equipment. The patient scenario commonly involves indications such as known parental genetic carrier status, prior child with a single-gene disorder, advanced maternal age, or recurrent pregnancy loss where embryo genetic evaluation is pursued before uterine transfer.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
00 | No modifier | Default; no special circumstances or professional/technical split |