Advanced Search

Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Look at Destruction Level for Thermocoagulation Code

Published on Mon Apr 26, 2010

Question: How do we code thermocoagulation of the greater occipital nerve?New York SubscriberAnswer: The correct choice depends on whether the physician destroys the nerve or treats it with pulses. For destruction, report 64640 (Destruction by neurolytic agent; other than peripheral nerve or branch). For pulsed treatments that affect the nerve but don't destroy it, submit 64999 (Unlisted procedure, nervous system) instead. Although the physician's procedural work may be similar, the pulsed treatment does not appear to create a destructive nerve lesion, precluding use of 64640.
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

Neurosurgery Coding Alert

View All