tci ED Coding & Reimbursement Alert - 2018 Issue 8

Reader Question: Differentiate Arthrocentesis, Aspiration

Question: We report code 20600 (Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection, small joint or bursa [e.g., fingers, toes]; without ultrasound guidance) from time to time but we are unclear of what the difference is between arthrocentesis and aspiration. Can you advise? Supercoder.com Subscriber Answer: When the ED physician performs arthrocentesis, he or she uses a needle or syringe to remove fluid from a joint, typically to ease pain. Aspiration, on the other hand, refers to the removal of fluid or cells from a body cavity via suction, such as with a trocar or needle and syringe. You can check...

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