Ask Dr. Z

Can you assist with the CPT code for the lumbar drain in the L3-L4 interspace? Code 62272 doesn't seem appropriate, as that's CSF, nor does 10030. "Evidence of a postoperative fluid collection in the subcutaneous space, which was possibly a pseudomeningocele. She is indicated for aspiration of the fluid for evaluation for infection as well as for placement of the lumbar drain placement. A large bore needle was inserted under prior guidance at first into the L2-3 interspace. Although the needle was in spinal canal, there is no evidence of CSF. The needle was removed and is once again reintroduced into the L3-4 interspace while the patient was placed in reverse and MR and was inserted into the spinal canal while the patient Valsalva. Clear CSF fluid was seen. The lumbar drain catheter was then inserted. The needle was removed and the catheter was secured at roughly 15 cm to the skin. Fluoroscopy was safe shows insertion of the lumbar drain at the L3-4 interspace with rostral progression and no evidence of kinking."