Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: Our physicians each recommend a different code for a single shot lumbar plexus block. What is the correct code?

Oklahoma Subscriber

Answer: CPT Codes does not include a code for a single shot lumbar plexus block, so your best option is 64449 (Injection, anesthetic agent; lumbar plexus, posterior approach, continuous infusion by catheter [including catheter placement]) with modifier 52 (Reduced services). Explain that the "reduced services" designation is because your physician performed a single lumbar plexus injection and did not place a catheter for continuous infusion.