HCPCS Code E0748: Osteogenesis Stimulator, Electrical, Non-Invasive, Spinal Applications

Learn about the HCPCS code E0748 for "Osteogenesis stimulator, electrical, non-invasive, spinal applications" through this guide.

Use Code

## **What is the HCPCS code E0748 for?** The HCPCS code E0748 is under the HCPCS category of Durable Medical Equipment (DME). It designates the provision of an electrical, non-invasive osteogenesis stimulator for spinal applications, which is used to augment bone repair. This electrical bone growth stimulator device aids bone healing and growth in the spine. It's usually placed on the fracture or fusion site, externally. It's often provided to patients who have undergone (multilevel) spinal fusion surgery and have been deemed at risk of having poor bone healing. It does this by stimulating bone cells to grow more effectively through delivering electrical signals. Please note that this is different from an ultrasonic osteogenesis stimulator. An electrical osteogenesis stimulator is a device that provides electrical stimulation, while an ultrasonic osteogenesis stimulator produces low-intensity, pulsed ultrasound signals. These signals are applied to the skin surface at the fracture site through an ultrasound conductive coupling gel to stimulate fracture healing. Also, you can't use this for the likes of tibial fractures, sesamoid bone fractures, fractures of the upper limb, long bone fractures, etc. This is only for the spine.

## **Documentation requirements for E0748** As with any HCPCS code, it's important to prepare sufficient documentation that meets and satisfies the correct coding guidelines and requirements set by your insurer, including any related policy articles and local coverage determinations. Here are examples of what you'll need: - The full name of the patient - The full names and credentials of the healthcare professionals handling the patient - The name, address, and type of facility where this device was provided - The relevant information and spinal indications related to the patient's medical record and current condition to justify medical necessity (e.g., stress fractures of the spine, pathological fractures of the spine; any other orthopedic and neurosurgical conditions they have; history of spinal fusion surgery or fracture (nonunion) of the spine; evidence of previously failed spinal fusion or delayed healing through imaging studies/radiographic evidence) - Clinical notes that contain clinically significant evidence supporting the lack of adequate healing despite conservative, appropriate fracture care - Device provided and patient education documented in the record - Physician's order/prescription specifying the need for a bone stimulator such as this - Documentation of the patient's consent to use this device

## **Billing requirements for E0748** Besides the documentation requirements above, it's best to take note of or have the following: - 1 device = 1 unit - The device's supplier must be Medicare/DMEPOS-certified - Coverage is only for the device itself - Please use the appropriate ICD code applicable to your patient - Please use the KF modifier. Without this, your claim will be rejected immediately - You must also add the KX modifier if all the coverage criteria has been met. If not, use the GA modifier if you're expecting a denial but have obtained a properly executed Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN). If you don't have an ABN, use modifier GZ. You will need any one of these three modifiers, too, or else your claim will be rejected - Prior authorization

## **Other similar codes** - **E0747** - Osteogenesis stimulator, electrical, non-invasive, other than spinal applications - **E0749** - Osteogenesis stimulator, electrical, surgically implanted - **E0760** - Osteogenesis stimulator, low intensity ultrasound, non-invasive - **E0761** - Non-thermal pulsed high frequency radiowaves, high peak power electromagnetic energy treatment device - **E0762** - Transcutaneous electrical joint stimulation device system, includes all accessories

Frequently asked questions

One is the surgical transplantation of bone tissue to improve the chances of bone formation and healing. This surgical procedure should be a last resort because it is invasive. Pharmacological treatments should be tried first.

Typically approved for failed spinal fusion or nonunion spinal fractures where healing has not occurred after 3–6 months.

Yes. It is a non-invasive device that can be used at home, and patients are instructed on proper daily use. It is also used in outpatient settings.