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Facet (Peri-Instrument) Injection

Date: Jun 23, 2020

Question:

Per CPT definition, code 64493 is for injection of facet joint or nerves innervating that joint. We performed this procedure for: "Lumbar pain post spinal fusion. Request for a therapeutic CT-guided facet (peri-instrument) injection around the fusion hardware at the right L5-S1 level". Our physician's technique is stated as: "Under intermittent imaging guidance, the needle was inserted into the peri-instrument soft tissues. Needle tip location was then confirmed by visualization of the needle tip around the fusion hardware. Steroid and anesthetic medications were then injected. Impression: CT-guided right L5-S1 facet (peri-instrument) steroid injection was performed." Because the report states the needle is inserted into the soft tissue and not the joint, how would this be coded? Some are coding this 64493, others are coding unlisted 64999.

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