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0988T Opn ins/rplc ins pattern sbq & sbf

Category III

Also known as: pain pump implant, drug pump

Open insertion or replacement of implantable pain medication pump in subcutaneous and subfascial tissues. Implant placement.

In Plain Language

Pain medication pump; Implanted pain relief

Clinical Context

Surgical implantation or replacement of intrathecal pain medication delivery system.

RVU Information

CPT 0988T 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

Pain ManagementNeurosurgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 0988T?

CPT 0988T (Opn ins/rplc ins pattern sbq & sbf) is a Category III code. Open insertion or replacement of implantable pain medication pump in subcutaneous and subfascial tissues. Implant placement.

Is 0988T a permanent CPT code?

No — 0988T 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 0988T used?

Surgical implantation or replacement of intrathecal pain medication delivery system.

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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.