August 2007 page 15a
Coding Communication:Surgery: Nervous System
Question
Is it appropriate to report nerve
block codes 64412, 64413, and 64418 more than
one time per encounter if the injections are
performed bilaterally?
AMA Comment
The spinal accessory nerve and the
suprascapular nerve are bilateral structures.
Therefore, when bilateral injections are
performed in either of these nerves, codes
64412, Injection, anesthetic agent; spinal accessory
nerve, and 64418, Injection, anesthetic agent;
suprascapular nerve, may be reported as appropriate,
with modifier 50, Bilateral procedure, appended
if performed bilaterally. Note, modifier 50 can
also be used for bilateral superficial cervical
plexus injections...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This article discusses a CPT coding question and AMA commentary focused on bilateral reporting for select nerve block procedures in the nervous system surgery section. It is intended for coding professionals who need to understand the scope of the guidance, the related CPT references, and the general payer considerations mentioned in the communication.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps coders and billing staff determine whether the article is relevant to bilateral procedure reporting questions and payer handling concerns for nervous system-related injections.
Article Sections
Coding Communication: Surgery: Nervous System
A question-and-answer style coding communication from CPT Assistant addressing bilateral reporting concerns for nervous system surgery procedures. The section includes AMA commentary and general payer-related notes.
What You Will Learn
The article’s focus within the nervous system surgery coding area
How the communication is structured as a coding question and AMA comment
The general topic of bilateral reporting and payer handling for select nerve block procedures
Which CPT-related references are discussed in the article
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