Summary & Overview
HCPCS C8007: Open Hypoglossal Nerve Neurostimulator Implantation
HCPCS Level II code C8007 represents the open surgical implantation of a hypoglossal nerve neurostimulator array and pulse generator when no separate distal respiratory sensor electrode or electrode array is required. This procedure is part of the expanding set of neurostimulation interventions used for treatment of obstructive sleep-disordered breathing and related indications where hypoglossal nerve modulation is clinically indicated. Nationally, such advanced implant procedures are relevant for specialty surgical practices, device manufacturers, and payers as utilization grows and coverage policies evolve.
Key payers covered in this overview 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 of service, and what to expect in coding and billing contexts. The publication provides benchmarks where available, summarizes relevant policy updates and coverage considerations, and situates the code within clinical workflows for surgical implantation of hypoglossal neurostimulator systems. Data not available in the input is acknowledged where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
HCPCS Level II code C8007 describes the open implantation of a hypoglossal nerve neurostimulator array and pulse generator where the procedure does not require insertion of a separate distal respiratory sensor electrode or electrode array. This procedure involves surgical placement of a neurostimulation system targeting the hypoglossal nerve to treat conditions such as obstructive sleep-disordered breathing through direct nerve modulation.
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Service type: Surgical implantation of a neurostimulator system (open procedure)
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Typical site of service: Operating room or ambulatory surgical center (inpatient or outpatient surgical setting depending on clinical indication and facility protocols)
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Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 52-year-old patient with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who is intolerant of or failed continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is scheduled for open implantation of a hypoglossal nerve neurostimulator array and pulse generator. Preoperative evaluation includes sleep medicine consultation with polysomnography confirming OSA, airway and neurosurgical assessment, anesthesia evaluation, and baseline imaging as indicated. On the day of surgery, the patient undergoes general anesthesia. The surgical team performs an open procedure to place a neurostimulator array on the hypoglossal nerve and implants a subcutaneous pulse generator in the chest or subclavicular region. This specific procedure does not require insertion of a separate distal respiratory sensor electrode or electrode array, so intraoperative steps focus on nerve exposure, electrode fixation to the hypoglossal nerve branches responsible for tongue protrusion, tunneling of leads to the pulse generator pocket, system testing for stimulation and motor response, hemostasis, and layered closure. Postoperative workflow includes recovery room monitoring for airway compromise, pain control, wound care instructions, device programming and titration by the sleep medicine or device specialist at a subsequent visit, and scheduled follow-up for wound check and sleep study or device efficacy assessment. Common clinical team members include an otolaryngologist or neurosurgeon, sleep medicine specialist, anesthesiologist, electrophysiology/device technician, and perioperative nursing staff.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
24 | Unrelated evaluation and management service by the same physician during a postoperative period |