Coding a Facet Joint Injection (April 1996)

Why This Topic Matters

Facet joint and paravertebral injection reporting can be affected by anatomy, technique, imaging, and the substance injected. Understanding the article helps users interpret the historical CPT context for these services and identify the code families referenced in the guidance.

Article Sections

1. April 1996 pages 6-7

   Publication context and article placement within the coding communication series.

2. Coding Communication

   Introductory framing for the coding topic and the procedural questions addressed in the article.

3. A Review of Vertebral Facet Joints

   Anatomy of the vertebral column and facet joint structures relevant to the procedure discussion.

4. Understanding Spinal Nerve Roots

   Background on spinal nerve anatomy and the relationship of nerve roots to pain and intervention.

5. A Selective Nerve Root Block

   General discussion of diagnostic and therapeutic nerve root block concepts and purposes.

6. Examining Injection Techniques

   Discussion of procedural approaches, laterality, multiple levels, imaging, and the distinction between different injection contexts.