Wiki Erector Spinae Plane Nerve Block

eochoa26

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Does anyone know if there is an updated coding guidance on billing the erector spinae plane nerve block? The guidance I have seen is to use the unlisted code 64999 with a description of the procedure added. Unfortunately Medicare will not reimburse the unlisted code and our anesthesiologists are starting to use this block for post-operative pain control for CABGs. It was suggested by one of our doctors to use 64461. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
 
Good morning - unfortunately the guidance is still to report the unlisted code for the erector spinae block. The AMA addressed the question directly in CPT Assist 1/1/2008 and advised the 64999 for a thoracic ESP block. I haven't seen anything more recent to contradict that.

It is always frustrating billing with unlisted codes due to the challenge of getting paid. Is Medicare denying even after you supply the documentation to show the block details? Hopefully as we all continue reporting the unlisted code for the ESP blocks and they are used more frequently, we will see the AMA create an established code.

Kim
www.codingmastery.com
 
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