Advanced Search

Orthopedic Coding Alert

Coding Strategies:

20526: Follow 3 FAQs to Unlock Carpal Tunnel Pay

Published on Mon Feb 21, 2011

Evidence of previous treatments a part of successful CTS shot claims.If you're coding for a patient's carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) injection, be sure to check if the patient has had any less invasive CTS treatments previously.Why? You could face a denial for the injection if it is an initial visit for CTS, as some insurers allow CTS injection therapy only when other treatments have failed.Check out these FAQs to make each CTS coding scenario a snap.Should the Physician Try Other Treatments Before 20526?Yes. The orthopedist would likely try out less invasive treatments before resorting to CTS injection (20526, Injection, therapeutic [e.g. local anesthetic, corticosteroid], carpal tunnel), confirms Marvel J. Hammer, RN, CPC, CCS-P, PCS, ACS-PM, CHCO, of Denver's MJH Consulting. These treatments might include, but are not limited to: splinting (or bracing) medication (non-streroidal anti-inflammatory) occupational therapy.If the patient's symptoms don't improve, the physician may then proceed with a corticosteroid [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Orthopedic Coding Alert

View All