Summary & Overview
CPT 93145: Evaluation of Implanted Carotid Sinus BAT System
CPT code 93145 denotes an in-person check and evaluation of an implanted carotid sinus baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) modulation system using an external programmer to review device function and therapy settings without performing reprogramming. This code captures a distinct device interrogation service that supports ongoing monitoring of patients with implanted BAT systems, an increasingly relevant aspect of care as cardiovascular implantable therapies expand. Nationally, clear coding for device checks helps standardize billing for device management and supports care continuity for patients with heart-failure–related or resistant-hypertension indications where BAT may be employed. Key payers in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare.
Readers will learn what CPT code 93145 represents clinically and operationally, typical settings where the service is performed, and which major payers are included in coverage comparisons. The publication provides benchmarks for utilization patterns, notes common clinical contexts for the service, and summarizes recent policy or coding guidance relevant to implanted device interrogation services. Data not available in the input is flagged where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 93145 describes an in-person evaluation and check of an implanted carotid sinus baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) modulation system. The service involves communication between an external programmer and the implanted device to review device function and therapy settings. The service explicitly does not include reprogramming of the device.
Service Type: Device interrogation and evaluation
Typical Site of Service: In-person outpatient or clinic visit where an external programmer can communicate with the implanted BAT device
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is an adult with an implanted carotid sinus baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) device for resistant hypertension or symptomatic heart failure who presents for routine in‑person device interrogation. The patient arrives at a cardiology or electrophysiology clinic or a device clinic affiliated with a hospital. The clinic nurse or medical assistant completes intake, reviews medications and recent symptoms (e.g., dizziness, syncope, palpitations, changes in blood pressure or heart failure symptoms), and documents device implant date and manufacturer. The clinician conducts a focused history and performs an in‑person interrogation using an external programmer to communicate with the implanted BAT system, assesses device function, battery status, lead integrity, and current therapy settings, and reviews patient response and adverse events. The visit includes review of device diagnostics and objective data but does not include reprogramming or adjustments to therapy settings. Findings are documented in the medical record, and routine follow‑up scheduling or referral for reprogramming is arranged if indicated.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
25 | Significant, separately identifiable E/M service by the same physician on the same day of the procedure | Use when a distinct evaluation and management visit is performed in addition to 93145 on the same date. |