How To Use CPT Code 62280

CPT code 62280 describes the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance, with or without another therapeutic substance, into the subarachnoid space of any spinal level. 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 62280?

CPT 62280 can be used to describe the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance, with or without another therapeutic substance, into the subarachnoid space of any spinal level. This procedure is performed to eliminate severe pain, particularly in cases of cancer pain involving the torso. The neurolytic substance is used to target and kill specific nerves, providing relief to the patient.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62280 is: ‘Injection/infusion of neurolytic substance (eg, alcohol, phenol, iced saline solutions), with or without other therapeutic substance; subarachnoid.’

3. Procedure

1. In this procedure, the patient is positioned on their side with the affected side down.
2. The provider cleans the injection site and administers a local anesthetic to numb the area.
3. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the provider inserts a needle through the skin and advances it slowly towards the target location in the subarachnoid space.
4. Intermittent fluoroscopic monitoring helps the provider ensure the needle is in the correct position.
5. Once the needle is properly positioned, the provider injects the neurolytic substance in increments, allowing time between injections to assess the effects and side effects.
6. In some cases, a catheter may be placed to infuse the neurolytic substance, reducing complications associated with subarachnoid injections.
7. The provider may use contrast to monitor the spread of the neurolytic substance.
8. After completing the procedure, the provider withdraws the needle and applies a sterile dressing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62280 is performed on patients experiencing severe pain, particularly cancer pain involving the torso. The procedure targets specific nerves in the subarachnoid space to provide relief. It may involve the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance, such as alcohol, phenol, or iced saline solutions, with or without another therapeutic substance. The use of contrast for epidurography is also included in this code.

5. When to use CPT code 62280

CPT code 62280 should be used when a provider performs the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance, with or without another therapeutic substance, into the subarachnoid space of any spinal level. This code is appropriate for cases involving severe pain, particularly cancer pain involving the torso. It should not be used for nonneurolytic substances administered via injection or infusion into the subarachnoid or epidural space.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 62280, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the neurolytic injection or infusion
• Specific neurolytic substance used, including any additional therapeutic substance
• Date and time of the procedure
• Injection site and the use of contrast, if applicable
• Progress and response of the patient to the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62280, ensure that the procedure involves the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance into the subarachnoid space. The use of contrast for epidurography is also included in this code. It should not be reported with codes 62320 to 62327, which are used for nonneurolytic substances administered via injection or infusion into the subarachnoid or epidural space. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and include any necessary modifiers or additional documentation to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 62280 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 with severe cancer pain in the torso receives an injection of a neurolytic substance into the subarachnoid space to alleviate the pain.
2. A provider administers an infusion of a neurolytic substance, along with another therapeutic substance, into the subarachnoid space to target specific nerves and provide relief from severe pain.
3. Using fluoroscopic guidance, a provider injects a neurolytic substance into the subarachnoid space to eliminate severe pain caused by cancer.