Wiki Erector Spinae Plane Block

[CandaceLucio]

Hi there-
Does anyone know what CPT code should be used for a Erector Spinae Plane Block ? Everything I have found says to use the unlisted 64999. If anyone has any supporting documentation on this topic and would like to share that would be great. Thank you in advance.

 

[jkyles]

Hi there, CPT Assistant 1/2018 and 12/2018 both state the block is billed with the unlisted code. For example:

"There is no specific CPT code that describes this service; therefore, code 64999, Unlisted procedure, nervous system, should be reported for the ESP block."

And

"...the erector spinae is a group of muscles and tendons extending the length, and on both sides, of the spine. It is not a separately identified spinal nerve or branch."

 

[CandaceLucio]

Thank you. I wanted to make sure I wasn't missing something.

 

[Bramoscenter]

I have a question. Can you bill 64461 for Erector Spinae Nerve Block instead of 64999. I am having trouble getting 64999 paid.

 

[LisaAlonso23]

I have a question. Can you bill 64461 for Erector Spinae Nerve Block instead of 64999. I am having trouble getting 64999 paid.

Per CPT assistant, you need to bill 64999 for the Erector Spinae block. I suggest appealing with the block notes if the block was performed by the anesthesiologist. If the surgeon performed the block, in addition to a surgical procedure, it's not separately billable.

 

[jkyles]

I have a question. Can you bill 64461 for Erector Spinae Nerve Block instead of 64999. I am having trouble getting 64999 paid.

Check the payer policy. Most payers don't cover ESP blocks. But you can not ever report a different code for a service because the appropriate code isn't being paid.