Advanced Search

Urology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Nerve Block

Published on Sat Jun 01, 2002

Question: I have heard that 64450 is the correct code for a dorsal penile nerve block when performing a circumcision on a newborn. What code should we use for a ring block? New Jersey Subscriber Answer: Medicare will not pay the same physician who performs a surgical procedure to administer anesthesia, but your scenario is clearly not applicable to Medicare. You may use 64450* (Injection, anesthetic agent; other peripheral nerve or branch) for either a dorsal penile nerve block or a ring block. Bill this code with 54150 (Circumcision, using clamp or other device; newborn). The main penile nerve runs along the dorsal or top aspect of the penis. You could inject at that one area, which is a dorsal block. A circular block or ring block also injects the dorsal nerve.  
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

Urology Coding Alert

View All