Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Question: What code should I report when my provider performs a cisternal C1-C2 puncture?

Delaware Subscriber

Answer: It depends on whether or not there was a separate injection for medication or another substance.

Do this: Go back and check the notes to see if there was a substance injection in addition to the puncture. Then choose from the following codes:

• 61050 (Cisternal or lateral cervical (C1-C2) puncture; without injection (separate procedure))
• 61055 (Cisternal or lateral cervical (C1-C2) puncture; with injection of medication or other substance for diagnosis or treatment)

Drug/substance alert: If applicable, be sure to code for the supply of the drug or substance your provider injects. Some drugs/substances that they might use during 61055 service include:

• J1720 (Injection, hydrocortisone sodium succinate, up to 100 mg)
• J9100 (Injection, cytarabine, 100 mg)
• J9250 (Methotrexate sodium, 5 mg).