How To Use CPT Code 62281

CPT 62281 describes the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance, with or without another therapeutic substance, in the epidural space of the cervical or thoracic 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 62281?

CPT 62281 can be used to describe the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the cervical or thoracic spinal level. This procedure is performed to eliminate severe pain after trauma or surgery involving limb amputation or to manage acutely painful conditions such as cancer. The provider may also include another therapeutic drug along with the neurolytic substance.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62281 is: ‘Injection/infusion of neurolytic substance (eg, alcohol, phenol, iced saline solutions), with or without other therapeutic substance; epidural, cervical or thoracic.’

3. Procedure

1. The anesthesia provider positions the patient on their side with the affected side down.
2. The provider cleans the target injection site and numbs it with a local anesthetic.
3. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the provider inserts a needle through the skin over the target location.
4. The provider advances the needle slowly and deliberately, confirming its position.
5. If necessary, the provider may inject contrast to further determine the exact needle location or gently aspirate to ensure proper needle placement.
6. Once in the epidural space of the cervical or thoracic level, the provider slowly injects the neurolytic solution or places a catheter to infuse the substance.
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.
9. In some cases, the provider may repeat the procedure on a daily basis or every other day to treat acute painful disorders.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62281 is performed on patients who require the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the cervical or thoracic spinal level. This procedure is typically used to manage severe pain after trauma or surgery involving limb amputation or to treat acutely painful conditions such as cancer. The provider may also include another therapeutic substance along with the neurolytic substance.

5. When to use CPT code 62281

CPT code 62281 should be used when the provider performs the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the cervical or thoracic spinal level. This code is appropriate for cases where severe pain needs to be managed or eliminated after trauma or surgery involving limb amputation, or for the treatment of acutely painful conditions such as cancer. It is important to note that this code is specific to the epidural space of the cervical or thoracic level.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 62281, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance
• Specific substances used, including the neurolytic substance and any additional therapeutic substance
• Date and details of the procedure, including the start and end time
• Confirmation of needle position and any use of contrast or aspiration
• Progress made by the patient and any plans for repeat procedures
• Provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62281, ensure that the procedure involves the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the cervical or thoracic spinal level. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines for reporting this code accurately. Additionally, consider any applicable modifiers or other codes that may need to be reported in conjunction with CPT 62281.

8. Historical information

CPT 62281 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1992. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes the injection of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the cervical level to manage severe pain after limb amputation.
2. A provider performs the infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the thoracic level to treat acute pain caused by cancer.
3. A patient receives the injection of a neurolytic substance along with another therapeutic substance in the epidural space of the cervical level to alleviate pain after trauma.
4. A provider performs the infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the thoracic level on a daily basis to manage severe pain caused by a chronic condition.
5. A patient undergoes the injection of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the cervical level to treat acute pain following surgery.
6. A provider performs the infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the thoracic level every other day to manage severe pain caused by cancer.
7. A patient receives the injection of a neurolytic substance along with another therapeutic substance in the epidural space of the cervical level to alleviate pain after trauma.
8. A provider performs the infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the thoracic level to manage severe pain after limb amputation.