Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Question: Our pain management specialist administered a single lumbar plexus block. How should I report this? Answer: CPT doesn't include a code for a single injection to the lumbar plexus, but that doesn't mean you're out of luck. The closest option is a code for an anesthetic injection in the lumbar plexus (64449, Injection, anesthetic agent; lumbar plexus, posterior approach, continuous infusion by catheter [including catheter placement] including daily management for anesthetic agent administration). Code 64449 isn't an exact match for the procedure, however, because it indicates continuous infusion by catheter. Option 1: Some payers may allow you to submit the single lumbar plexus block with 64449 and append modifier 52 (Reduced services). Modifier 52 reflects that the procedure performed was reduced because 64449 includes all postoperative management services of the infusion. Option 2: Your payer might not accept 64449-52 for the single lumbar plexus block. As CPT instructions state, [...]