mhstrauss
True Blue
Hi, I need help with selecting the correct diagnosis code for a discontinued procedure one of my Pain MD's performed recently. It was intended to be a Lumbar ESI but could not be completed due to previous fusion at the same level. My doc dictated:
...A 3.5 inch 20 gauge Tuohy spinal needle was passed through the skin wheal and advanced in a paramedian fashion, however, the epidural space could not be accessed due to posterior boney fusion. The needle was withdrawn and gentle pressure placed over the wound for hemostasis...
Would this be considered a contraindication (V64.1)? Or should that code only be used for medical reasons, such as reaction to anesthesia, tachycardia, etc? If this does not fit in V64.1, the other option I'm seeing is V64.3.
Would love to get some feedback on this. TIA!!
...A 3.5 inch 20 gauge Tuohy spinal needle was passed through the skin wheal and advanced in a paramedian fashion, however, the epidural space could not be accessed due to posterior boney fusion. The needle was withdrawn and gentle pressure placed over the wound for hemostasis...
Would this be considered a contraindication (V64.1)? Or should that code only be used for medical reasons, such as reaction to anesthesia, tachycardia, etc? If this does not fit in V64.1, the other option I'm seeing is V64.3.
Would love to get some feedback on this. TIA!!