Summary & Overview
HCPCS Level II A6580: Gradient Compression Glove, Custom, Heavy Weight
HCPCS Level II code A6580 denotes a custom, heavy-weight gradient compression glove supplied as a single item. The code applies to custom-fit compression garments intended to provide graduated pressure to the hand and wrist for lymphedema management, chronic swelling, or other clinical indications that require durable compression. Nationally, custom compression devices are significant for post-surgical rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and long-term outpatient durable medical equipment (DME) utilization.
Key payers in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise reference to payer coverage patterns, common billing modifiers, and the clinical context in which this garment is used. The publication outlines standard service settings, typical claims considerations for custom DME supplies, and benchmarks relevant to utilization and approval processes. It highlights documentation elements commonly required for coverage decisions and situates A6580 within the broader DME garment category.
This summary provides clinicians, billing staff, and policy analysts with an overview of the code’s clinical purpose, expected sites of service, and the payer landscape to inform coding and administrative workflows. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
HCPCS Level II code A6580 describes a gradient compression glove, custom, heavy weight, each. This item is a custom-fitted compression garment designed to provide graduated pressure to the hand and wrist for conditions requiring sustained compression therapy.
Service type: custom compression garment
Typical site of service: outpatient durable medical equipment (DME) supply, specialty prosthetics/orthotics or clinic fitting setting
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient with chronic lymphedema of the hand after breast cancer treatment presents to a specialty clinic for fitting of a custom gradient compression glove. The patient has persistent swelling, reduced hand function, and skin changes despite conservative measures (manual lymphatic drainage, exercise, and over-the-counter compression). A certified lymphedema therapist documents limb measurements and orders a A6580 custom heavy-weight gradient compression glove to provide graduated pressure for edema control, skin protection, and improved function. The clinical workflow includes evaluation by a physician or certified therapist, documented measurements and justification for custom fabrication, written order for A6580, fabrication by an orthotic/compression supplier, fit check, patient education on wear schedule and skin care, and follow-up to assess fit and therapeutic response.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
LT | Left side | Use when the glove is for the left hand. |
RT |