Ask Dr. Z

I know the vertebral body mass would be coded with 20225 and 77012. I’m not sure what code to use for the epidural space mass biopsy. Do I even get to code for both biopsies since they were done at the same level?

"CT probe was used to guide and select a percutaneous entry site for biopsy of portion of the right lateral aspect of the T9 vertebral body that is involved with tumor. This is the inferior aspect of the vertebral body. I also used CT guidance to select a percutaneous entry site for biopsy of the mass involving the right epidural space at T9. A 19 gauge outer cannula co-axial system was advanced into the epidural mass at T9, and multi core specimens were obtained. I removed the co-axial system. A co-axial system was then advanced into the inferior aspect of the vertebral body at T9, targeting the right lateral mid body. Multi core specimens were obtained. Successful biopsy of a mass involving the right epidural space at T9 and a successful biopsy of the mass involving the right T9 vertebral body."