How To Use CPT Code 62282

CPT 62282 describes the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance, with or without another therapeutic substance, in the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral 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 62282?

CPT 62282 is used to describe the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance, such as alcohol or phenol, in the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral spinal level. This procedure is performed to alleviate severe pain caused by conditions such as painful nerve root compression, complex recurrent postoperative pain, or spasm associated with spasticity or paraplegia.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62282 is: ‘Injection/infusion of neurolytic substance (eg, alcohol, phenol, iced saline solutions), with or without other therapeutic substance; epidural, lumbar, sacral (caudal)’

3. Procedure

1. The provider positions the patient 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 epidural space.
4. Once the needle is in the epidural space, the provider may inject contrast to confirm the needle’s position.
5. The provider then injects the neurolytic substance or places a catheter to infuse the substance.
6. Contrast may be used to monitor the spread of the neurolytic substance.
7. After the procedure is complete, the provider removes the needle and applies a sterile dressing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62282 is performed for patients experiencing severe pain due to conditions such as painful nerve root compression, complex recurrent postoperative pain, or spasm associated with spasticity or paraplegia. The procedure is typically performed by an anesthesia provider and involves the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral spinal level.

5. When to use CPT code 62282

CPT code 62282 should be used when the provider performs the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral spinal level. It is important to note that this code 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 code 62282, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the neurolytic injection or infusion
• Specific neurolytic substance used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Injection site and approach
• Use of contrast, if applicable
• Any complications or adverse reactions
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 62282, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this code, including the injection or infusion of a neurolytic substance in the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral spinal level. It is important to note that CPT code 62282 should not be reported with other codes for nonneurolytic substances administered via injection or infusion in the subarachnoid or epidural space.

8. Historical information

CPT code 62282 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 pain due to painful nerve root compression receives an epidural injection of a neurolytic substance in the lumbar region.
2. A patient with complex recurrent postoperative pain undergoes an epidural infusion of a neurolytic substance in the sacral region.
3. A patient with spasm associated with spasticity receives an epidural injection of a neurolytic substance in the lumbar region.
4. A patient with paraplegia experiences severe pain and receives an epidural infusion of a neurolytic substance in the sacral region.
5. A patient with unexplained severe pain in the lumbar region undergoes an epidural injection of a neurolytic substance.
6. A patient with chronic pain receives an epidural infusion of a neurolytic substance in the lumbar region.