Wiki Epidurography-72275

[aales]

We are having some confusion in the office on whether 72275 is billable with epidural injection, 64483. All the procedure report states is: "Following this I instilled contrast with medial flow representing a right L4 epidurogram." The physician has said that this is done for additional verification, along with x-rays, of needle placement. Some of us feel that this is not correct billing since it is being done for needle placement only, not diagnostic purposes. While some of us feel that the physician just needs to dictate more information in order for it to be billed. If anyone out there has any information from AMA, Medicare, etc. regarding this it would be greatly appreciated.

 

[aaron.lucas]

In this case I would say no, because injection of contrast for needle placement is included. Also to qualify as an epidurogram images must be taken and a report written up. Think of it as an x-ray done after an injection of contrast, you still need the radiology report with the findings.