How To Use CPT Code 20983

CPT code 20983 describes the use of cryoablation therapy for the reduction or eradication of one or more bone tumors, including adjacent soft tissue when involved by tumor extension. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 20983?

CPT 20983 is a code used to describe the ablation therapy for the reduction or eradication of one or more bone tumors, including adjacent soft tissue when involved by tumor extension. This procedure involves the use of cryoablation, which is the application of extremely cold energy to destroy the tumor cells and affected tissues. The provider may use imaging guidance to help identify and target the diseased tissue and to visualize and control the treatment of the tumor during the procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 20983 is: ‘Ablation therapy for reduction or eradication of one or more bone tumors (e.g., metastasis) including adjacent soft tissue when involved by tumor extension, percutaneous, including imaging guidance when performed cryoablation.’

3. Procedure

In this procedure, the provider makes a percutaneous incision through the skin and introduces a cryoablation probe, or freezing probe, to freeze and destroy tumor cells and adjacent affected tissue. The provider may use imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to help guide the probe to the tumor site and confirm its position. The freezing probe is kept at the site for the necessary duration to completely destroy the bone tumor based on its size and complexity. The provider also destroys the surrounding soft tissue impacted by the tumor. Once the tumor ablation is complete, the probe is withdrawn, and the incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 20983 is used for patients with one or more bone tumors, including metastasis, that require ablation therapy for reduction or eradication. The procedure is performed percutaneously, meaning through the skin, and includes the destruction of adjacent soft tissue when involved by tumor extension. The provider may use imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to assist in the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 20983

CPT code 20983 should be used when the provider performs cryoablation therapy for the reduction or eradication of one or more bone tumors, including adjacent soft tissue when involved by tumor extension. This code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 76940, 77002, 77013, or 77022, which are related to imaging guidance.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 20983, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for ablation therapy
• Specific details of the procedure, including the use of cryoablation and any imaging guidance
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Details of the tumor(s) treated, including size and location
• Confirmation of the freezing probe’s position at the tumor site
• Progress made during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 20983, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria described in the official description. Do not report this code in conjunction with codes 76940, 77002, 77013, or 77022, which are related to imaging guidance. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 20983 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2015. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 20983

There are no similar codes to CPT code 20983 within the range of Other Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System (20950-20999).

9. Examples

1. A provider performs cryoablation therapy for the reduction of a bone tumor in a patient with metastatic cancer.
2. A patient with a bone tumor undergoes cryoablation therapy to eradicate the tumor and adjacent soft tissue involved by tumor extension.
3. A provider uses cryoablation with imaging guidance to treat multiple bone tumors in a patient with metastasis.
4. A patient with a bone tumor receives cryoablation therapy to reduce the size of the tumor and alleviate symptoms.
5. A provider performs cryoablation therapy for the eradication of a bone tumor in a patient with a history of cancer.
6. A patient with a bone tumor undergoes cryoablation therapy to prevent further tumor growth and spread.
7. A provider uses cryoablation with imaging guidance to treat a complex bone tumor involving adjacent soft tissue.
8. A patient with multiple bone tumors receives cryoablation therapy to improve their overall condition and quality of life.
9. A provider performs cryoablation therapy for the reduction of a bone tumor in a patient with limited treatment options.
10. A patient with a bone tumor undergoes cryoablation therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.