How To Use CPT Code 24220

CPT code 24220 describes the injection procedure for elbow arthrography. 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 24220?

CPT code 24220 is used to describe the injection procedure for elbow arthrography. This procedure involves the injection of contrast material into the elbow joint cavity to enhance radiographic imaging. It is performed to evaluate internal structures such as cartilage, ligaments, and bones, and to diagnose joint conditions and unexplained pain.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24220 is: ‘Injection procedure for elbow arthrography.’

3. Procedure

The injection procedure for elbow arthrography involves several steps:

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The healthcare provider inserts a needle into the elbow joint cavity, typically under fluoroscopic guidance.
3. The elbow is flexed at 90 degrees to facilitate the procedure.
4. The provider confirms the position of the needle by injecting contrast material into the joint cavity. In some cases, both contrast material and air may be used for a double contrast arthrogram.
5. If necessary, the provider may remove some joint fluid for further analysis.
6. Finally, the provider removes the needle.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 24220 is used for patients who require elbow arthrography to evaluate joint conditions and unexplained pain. This procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider who is experienced in performing arthrography. The patient must meet the criteria for the procedure, which may include symptoms such as joint pain, limited range of motion, or suspected joint abnormalities.

5. When to use CPT code 24220

CPT code 24220 should be used when the injection procedure for elbow arthrography is performed. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with CPT code 77002, which is used for radiological supervision and interpretation. Additionally, for the injection procedure for tennis elbow, CPT code 20550 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24220, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s symptoms or indications for the procedure
• Details of the injection procedure, including the use of contrast material and any additional substances
• Confirmation of needle position and injection of contrast material
• Any joint fluid collected and sent for laboratory analysis
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24220, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider experienced in arthrography. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code and to avoid reporting it with other codes that are not appropriate. For radiological supervision and interpretation, CPT code 73085 should be used instead of CPT code 24220. Additionally, CPT code 77002 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT code 73085.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24220 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with unexplained elbow pain, and the healthcare provider performs an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to evaluate the joint and diagnose the underlying condition.
2. A professional athlete experiences limited range of motion in their elbow joint, and the healthcare provider performs an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to assess any joint abnormalities.
3. A patient with a history of elbow injury complains of persistent joint pain, and the healthcare provider performs an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to identify the cause of the pain.
4. A patient with suspected cartilage damage in their elbow joint undergoes an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to evaluate the extent of the damage and plan appropriate treatment.
5. A patient with chronic elbow pain undergoes an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to determine the cause of the pain and guide further management.
6. A patient with a suspected ligament tear in their elbow joint undergoes an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to confirm the diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.
7. A patient with a history of elbow joint instability undergoes an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to assess the stability of the joint and plan appropriate interventions.
8. A patient with unexplained swelling in their elbow joint undergoes an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to evaluate the joint and identify any underlying pathology.
9. A patient with suspected bone abnormalities in their elbow joint undergoes an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to assess the bone structure and identify any abnormalities.
10. A patient with persistent elbow pain following a previous surgery undergoes an injection procedure for elbow arthrography to evaluate the surgical outcome and identify any potential complications.