Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: What is the correct code for an injection into the wrist compartment for de Quervain's disease?

Mississippi Subscriber

Answer: The provider injects around the tendon sheath when he treats de Quervain's disease, so choose 20550 (Injection[s]; single tendon sheath, or ligament, aponeurosis [e.g., plantar "fascia"]). Some coders lean toward 20551 (Injection[s]; single tendon origin/insertion) or 20605 (Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection; intermediate joint or bursa [e.g., temporomandibular, acromioclavicular, wrist, elbow or ankle, olecranon bursa]), but the injection location (around the tendon sheath) makes 20550 a better choice.