2.0 DESCRIPTION
SEPs are electrical waves that
are generated by the response of sensory neurons to stimuli. Changes
in the electrical waves are averaged by a computer and then interpreted
by a physician. Computer-averaged SEPs can be used to assist the
diagnosis of certain neuropathologic states or to provide information
for treatment management. Intraoperative monitoring of sensory evoked
potentials is used during orthopedic or neurologic surgical procedures
to reduce surgically induced morbidity and/or to monitor the level
of anesthesia.
3.0 POLICY
Visual, auditory, and somatosensory
evoked potential recordings that are medically necessary to diagnose, evaluate,
assess recovery of brainstem function, measure the type and extent
of hearing impairment, and to assess somatosensory function in unconscious
patients or to supplement the Electroencephalogram (EEG) in evaluating brain
death or irreversibility of coma are covered.