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Orthopedic Coding Alert

Reader Question:

20550 Is Your Best Bet for Heel Spur Steroid Injection

Published on Sat Oct 09, 2004

Question: Which code should I report for a heel spur steroid injection?

Kentucky Subscriber Answer: Because the physician usually injects the plantar fascia during this procedure, you should report CPT 20550 (Injection[s]; single tendon sheath, or ligament, aponeurosis [e.g., plantar "fascia"]).

Remember also to bill for the medication, especially if the physician uses Depo-Medrol (codes J1020, J1030 and J1040 for different quantities for Injection, methylprednisolone acetate). Medicare bundles some medications with the injection, but most carriers reimburse for Depo-Medrol.
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