Home
Career Stage
Medical Students Residents Attendings CPT Codes Resources Blog Support

0485T Oct mid ear i & r unilateral

Category III

Also known as: middle ear OCT, otologic OCT

Optical coherence tomography with interpretation and report of middle ear structures unilateral. Real-time microscopic imaging of middle ear during otologic procedures.

In Plain Language

Microscopic imaging of ear structures; Ear surgery imaging

Clinical Context

Used during middle ear surgery to visualize ossicles, tympanic membrane, and disease extent. Improves surgical precision.

RVU Information

CPT 0485T does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Category III codes for emerging technology do not receive RVU assignments. Reimbursement is negotiated with individual payers.

Billing & Documentation

Category III codes are temporary codes for emerging technology, services, and procedures. They are not assigned RVU values by CMS. Coverage and reimbursement vary by payer — check with individual insurers before billing. These codes sunset after 5 years if not converted to Category I.

Specialties

OtolaryngologyNeurotology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 0485T?

CPT 0485T (Oct mid ear i & r unilateral) is a Category III code. Optical coherence tomography with interpretation and report of middle ear structures unilateral. Real-time microscopic imaging of middle ear during otologic procedures.

Is 0485T a permanent CPT code?

No — 0485T is a Category III temporary code for emerging technology. It may be converted to a permanent Category I code if widely adopted. Category III codes expire after 5 years without renewal.

When is CPT 0485T used?

Used during middle ear surgery to visualize ossicles, tympanic membrane, and disease extent. Improves surgical precision.

Track This Code in RVU Edge

Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.

CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.