Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Code Epidurogram, But Not Usually Lumbar Epi

Published on Mon Feb 27, 2012

Question: The physician performed an epidurogram diagnostic study in conjunction with a fluoroscopically guided lumbar epidural injection. He obtained hard copy images of the epidurogram in multiple planes and prepared a formal radiologic report of his interpretation. I believe I can only report 72275 for this case and not the fluoroscopy used for the epidural injection. Is that correct?

Florida Subscriber

Answer: Yes, you may report 72275 (Epidurography, radiological supervision and interpretation) if the physician performs the separate diagnostic study, including the permanent radiologic images of the epidural space, and documents the diagnostic interpretation in a written report.

CPT® states that 72275 includes 77003 (Fluoroscopic guidance and localization of needle or catheter tip for spine or paraspinous diagnostic or therapeutic injection procedures [epidural, or subarachnoid]), so you would not report both codes together for the same service.

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