Wiki Aspiration with injection

[twalls]

Howdy Folks- when a pt comes in and the provider aspirates fluid from a knee and then replaces it with cortisone. What is the proper way to code and get paid for these? 20610 & 20610-RT then with the J3301 or 20610 X2. I am struggling getting paid for this type of procedure.

Thank you!
TW

 

[sxcoder1]

20610 includes aspiration and injection. The description reads "arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection", so 20610 is billed only once.

 

[SharonCollachi]

We do this sort of thing without even removing the needle. You can use a stopcock that allows you to attach two syringes, or you can just unscrew the syringe from the needle without removing the needle from the joint, then attach the syringe with the steroid and inject.

 

[twalls]

Thank you for a quick, speedy reply! Much appreciated! Ortho...the bane of my existence!