Urology Coding Alert

Question: Should I use CPT 64450 or CPT 64430 for a lidocaine penile ring block prior to Verapamil?

Michigan Subscriber

Answer: For a penile ring block, you should report 64450 (Injection, anesthetic agent; other peripheral nerve or branch).

CPT code 64430 (... pudendal nerve) is for a pudendal nerve block, which a physician most often administers through the perineum, usually under ultrasonic guidance.

Pointer: Medicare will never reimburse the surgeon administering local anesthesia for the anesthesia procedure. Some private carriers will, however. Therefore, bill your private carriers and keep a record of who does and who does not reimburse for the local anesthesia block before surgery.