Search all medical codes

Hearing aid, digital, monaural, bte

HCPCS code

Name of the Procedure:

Common name: Digital Hearing Aid (Monaural, BTE)
Technical/medical term: Hearing aid, digital, monaural, behind-the-ear (V5257)

Summary

A digital hearing aid (monaural) is a single device used to assist individuals with hearing loss. It is worn behind the ear (BTE) and enhances sound to improve hearing capabilities.

Purpose

Medical Condition: Hearing loss
Goals: To amplify sounds, improve hearing clarity, and enhance overall communication abilities.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

  • Difficulty hearing conversations
  • Frequent need for increased volume on electronic devices
  • Hearing loss diagnosed by a medical professional

Patient Criteria:

  • Confirmed hearing loss in one ear
  • Suitable for individuals of various ages diagnosed with conductive or sensorineural hearing loss

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

  • Audiometric evaluation to determine the extent of hearing loss
  • No special fasting or medication adjustments needed
  • Consultation with an audiologist for a fitting and customization of the hearing aid

Procedure Description

Steps:

  1. Comprehensive hearing evaluation and diagnosis by an audiologist.
  2. Selection and customization of the appropriate BTE hearing aid model.
  3. Fitting the hearing aid behind the ear and adjusting it for comfort.
  4. Programming the digital processor based on the audiogram results.
  5. Instruction on the use and maintenance of the device.

Tools/Equipment:

  • Digital BTE hearing aid
  • Audiometer for hearing assessment
  • Computer software for programming the device

Anesthesia:

  • Not required

Duration

Typically: 1-2 hours including fitting and customization

Setting

Location: Outpatient clinic or audiology center

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals:

  • Audiologist
  • Hearing aid specialist

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

  • Skin irritation or allergic reaction to the earmold
  • Initial discomfort while getting used to the device

Rare Risks:

  • Device malfunction
  • Feedback noise due to improper fitting

Management:

  • Regular follow-ups and adjustments as needed
  • Manufacturer warranty and servicing for device issues

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

  • Improved hearing clarity
  • Better communication and quality of life
  • Immediate noticeable improvement upon proper fitting

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

  • Regular cleaning and proper storage of the device
  • Follow-up visits for adjustments
  • Adherence to care and maintenance instructions

Recovery Time:

  • No recovery period is needed but an adaptation period of a few weeks is common

Alternatives

Other Options:

  • In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
  • Cochlear implants for severe cases

Pros/Cons of Alternatives:

  • ITE hearing aids are less visible but may be less powerful than BTE devices
  • Cochlear implants offer more profound hearing improvement but involve surgical intervention

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

  • Minimal discomfort during fitting and adjustments
  • Non-invasive and pain-free process

After the Procedure:

  • Adaptation period where the patient may experience unusual sound perceptions
  • Continuous improvement in hearing with consistent usage

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Hearing aid, digital, monaural, bte

Related policies from health plans

Air Conduction Hearing Aids

Similar Codes