Radiology Coding Alert

Revised directions change ultrasound, T12-L1 reporting.While you're getting up to speed on CPT 2011 changes, remember to check for updated or revised guidelines, not just code descriptors. This year's updates bring new details for coding some common injection procedures, as pointed out at the AMA's CPT and RBRVS 2011 Annual Symposium in Chicago. Read on for a few pointers to help you stay on the right track.Check Revised Paravertebral Injection NotesThe introduction of new codes for paravertebral facet joint injections in 2010 (64490-+64495) meant changes to how you reported related codes. During the CPT and RBRVS Symposium, Douglas G. Merrill, MD, MBA, of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, pointed out two revised guidelines dealing with paravertebral facet (spinal) joint procedures. Ultrasound clarification: Instructions in CPT 2010 directed you to report 64999 (Unlisted procedure, nervous system) if the provider used ultrasound guidance during paravertebral facet joint injections. The AMA released a [...]