How To Use CPT Code 60300

CPT 60300 describes the procedure of aspiration and/or injection of a thyroid cyst. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 60300?

CPT 60300 can be used to describe the procedure of draining a thyroid cyst using a needle or catheter. The provider may use radiologic imaging to guide the needle/catheter into the target area to drain the cyst.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 60300 is: ‘Aspiration and/or injection, thyroid cyst.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider examines the thyroid cyst and may perform other tests to confirm their findings.
2. The patient is positioned on their back with the neck extended and a pillow placed under their shoulder.
3. The provider administers a local anesthetic to numb the area and prepares the biopsy site.
4. The provider cleans the biopsy site and makes an incision in the skin.
5. A needle or catheter is inserted through the incision and into the cyst to collect a sample of fluid for testing.
6. A sterile dressing is applied to the site.
7. In some cases, the provider may use imaging to help locate the area to treat.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 60300 is performed when a patient has a thyroid cyst that requires aspiration and/or injection. The provider must assess the cyst and may perform additional tests to confirm the need for the procedure. The patient should be positioned in a specific manner, and the provider must administer a local anesthetic to numb the area. The procedure may involve the use of radiologic imaging to guide the needle/catheter into the cyst.

5. When to use CPT code 60300

CPT code 60300 should be used when a provider performs the aspiration and/or injection of a thyroid cyst. It is important to note that this code should not be used for fine needle aspiration biopsy, which has its own set of specific codes. If radiologic guidance is used during the procedure, separate codes should be reported for the guidance.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 60300, the provider must document the following information:

• Confirmation of the need for the procedure based on examination and other tests
• Positioning of the patient during the procedure
• Administration of a local anesthetic
• Cleansing of the biopsy site and incision
• Insertion of the needle or catheter into the cyst
• Collection of fluid for testing
• Application of a sterile dressing
• Use of radiologic imaging, if applicable

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 60300, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria described in the official description. If radiologic guidance is used, separate codes should be reported for the guidance. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 60300 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2008. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performing aspiration of a thyroid cyst to collect a sample for testing.
2. A patient undergoing injection of a thyroid cyst to treat the condition.
3. A provider using radiologic imaging to guide the needle into the target area for aspiration of a thyroid cyst.
4. A patient receiving an injection into a thyroid cyst to alleviate symptoms.
5. A provider performing aspiration and injection of multiple thyroid cysts during the same procedure.
6. A patient undergoing aspiration of a thyroid cyst without the use of radiologic imaging.
7. A provider using ultrasound guidance to assist in the aspiration of a thyroid cyst.
8. A patient receiving an injection into a thyroid cyst under the guidance of radiologic imaging.
9. A provider performing aspiration and injection of a large thyroid cyst that requires multiple needle insertions.
10. A patient undergoing aspiration and injection of a recurrent thyroid cyst.