Reader Question:
Multiple Injections May Not Mean More Payment
Published on Thu Jun 09, 2011
Question: If the surgeon gives 2 injections into the (same) knee in two separate locations, one along the patellar tendon and the other along the superior aspect of the patella, can code 20610 be reported twice? If so, what is the appropriate modifier?New York SubscriberAnswer: Code 20610 (Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection; major joint or bursa [eg, shoulder, hip, knee joint, subacromial bursa]) is not reported twice or with a modifier in this situation as both the injections are in the same knee and given one after another.
