Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert
Opt for 1 Code When US Is Included
Question: The provider performs arthrocentesis on a patient’s left shoulder with ultrasound (US) guidance and permanent recording and reporting. I reported 20610 and 76999 with modifier LT appended and received a denial. What did I do wrong? AAPC Forum Subscriber Answer: Your coding was off on this claim. When you resubmit, report 20611 (Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection, major joint or bursa (eg, shoulder, hip, knee, subacromial bursa); with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting) with modifier LT (Left side) appended to indicate laterality. Explanation: Since there is a code that combines the arthrocentesis with the US, you’d use that instead of reporting 20610 (… without ultrasound guidance) and 76999 (Unlisted ultrasound procedure (eg, diagnostic, interventional)).
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