Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Question: I have two questions about code 92550. Can we only use it when ipsilateral and contralateral reflexes are performed? If the equipment is set up to only perform ipsilateral reflex measures, should we bill with modifier 52?

North Carolina Subscriber

Answer: CPT^® code 92550 (Tympanometry and reflex threshold measurements) includes both ipsilateral and contralateral reflexes and represents testing on both ears. If the otolaryngologist tests only one ear, append modifier 52 (Reduced services) and be sure you have supporting documentation explaining the service. Since most audiology testing codes are based on performing them on both the right and left sides, the 52 modifier is used when the testing is performed on only one side.