Advanced Search

Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Destruction Codes Describe RFTC

Published on Wed Apr 27, 2005

Question: How can I report radiofrequency thermal coagulation (RFTC) to disable the nerves in a patient's lumbar area?


Delaware Subscriber


Answer: If the physician uses RFTC or pulse RFTC in the lumbar or sacral area, you should report 64622 (Destruction by neurolytic agent, paravertebral facet joint nerve; lumbar or sacral, single level).

If the physician treats additional lumbosacral levels during the same session, report +64623 (... lumbar or sacral, each additional level [list separately in addition to code for primary procedure]) once for each additional level without any modifiers appended.

Note that the term "agent" in the 64622/64623 descriptor includes chemical, thermal, electrical and radiofrequency methods, according to the March 2002 CPT Assistant.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

View All