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Anesthesia Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Noninvasive Lumbar Punctures With MAC

Published on Sun Jul 01, 2001

Question: We use the new anesthesia code 00635 for noninvasive lumbar punctures requiring MAC. One of our anesthesiologists suggested we code with 00630 if fluoroscopy or other contrast is used. Is this correct? Nevada Subscriber Answer: Because many coders and carriers consider the use of contrast as diagnostic, 00635 (anesthesia for procedures in lumbar region; diagnostic or therapeutic lumbar puncture) is appropriate even when fluoroscopy or other contrast is used. However, if a surgical procedure is performed or if you do more than a diagnostic or therapeutic lumbar puncture (such as chemotherapy treatment), 00630 (anesthesia for procedures in lumbar region; not otherwise specified) would be appropriate. If the carrier accepts codes that are in the ASA Relative Value Guide but not in CPT yet, ASA code 01905 (anesthesia for injection procedure[s]; not otherwise specified [e.g., arteriography, myelography or diskography) is a more specific choice than 00630.
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