cpt 20600, cpt code 20600, 20600 cpt code

CPT Code 20600 | Description & Clinical Information

CPT 20600 describes the insertion of a needle through a patient’s skin into a small joint or bursa, followed by the use of a syringe attachment to remove fluid or inject a therapeutic drug into the joint, all without the use of ultrasound guidance.

1. What Is CPT Code 20600

CPT 20600 covers a procedure in which a provider inserts a needle through the skin and moves it into a bursa or small joint. They then inject a drug or remove a fluid for therapeutic purposes with a syringe that they attach to the needle.

This procedure is performed without ultrasound guidance.

2. Description

The CPT Professional Book describes CPT code 20600 as: “Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection, small joint or bursa (e.g., fingers, toes); without ultrasound guidance.”

3. Procedure

The procedure described by CPT code 20600 is a specialized medical procedure that involves the removal of fluid from a joint or bursa. This procedure is typically performed when there is inflammation or swelling in the joint or bursa, often caused by injury or disease. The surgery is considered minor, and patients are usually able to return to normal activities within a few days.

Before performing the surgery, the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized to ensure their comfort and safety. The provider then inserts a needle through the skin into the joint or bursa, guided by their experience and skill. Once the needle is properly placed, the provider uses a syringe to extract any fluid that may be present in the joint or bursa.

After the fluid has been removed, the provider will send it to the laboratory for further examination. In some cases, the provider may also inject a drug into the joint or bursa for therapeutic purposes, such as pharmacotherapy or lavage. This can help to reduce inflammation and provide relief from pain.

Once the procedure is complete, the provider removes the needle and applies pressure to stop any bleeding. It is important to note that ultrasound guidance is not required for this procedure, but it may be used in some cases to improve accuracy.

It is important to only use CPT code 20600 when the provider performs aspiration or injection in a small joint or bursa without ultrasound guidance. This code should not be used for larger joints or for procedures that require ultrasound guidance.

In summary, the CPT code 20600 procedure is a safe and effective way to remove fluid from joints or bursae, reducing inflammation and providing relief from pain. It is important to choose a provider with the necessary training and expertise to perform this procedure accurately and safely, and to follow all post-operative instructions for the best possible outcome.

4. How To Use CPT Code 20600

Do not use CPT code 20600 if ultrasound guidance was used during the procedure.

Return to all the CPT codes for general introduction or removal procedures on the musculoskeletal system.

5. Resources

CPT Professional 2022

https://www.aapc.com/blog/40019-coding-arthrocentesis-aspiration-or-injection-is-a-joint-effort/

https://www.aapc.com/blog/52309-coding-arthrocentesis-is-a-joint-effort/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/14512-arthrocentesis-joint-aspiration

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