How To Use CPT Code 62290

CPT 62290 describes the injection procedure for discography in the lumbar region of the spine. 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 62290?

CPT 62290 is used to describe the injection procedure for discography in the lumbar region of the spine. This diagnostic procedure involves injecting contrast into the nucleus pulposus, or gel-like center of a spinal disc, to examine and visualize the intervertebral disc space. It is also known as a discogram or disc stimulation and helps identify damage to the lumbar vertebrae that may be causing neck or back pain.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 62290 is: ‘Injection procedure for discography, each level; lumbar.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider positions the patient on a radiolucent table, typically on one side and slightly forward.
2. The provider cleans the skin over the area for injection and administers a local anesthetic to numb the skin and soft tissue.
3. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the provider inserts a needle through the skin and muscle, reaching the outer layer of the disc.
4. A second needle is passed through the first needle and inserted into the center of the suspect intervertebral disc.
5. The provider injects contrast through the needle into the nucleus of the disc.
6. Images are taken to evaluate the disc anatomy and dye pattern, looking for leaks outside of the disc.
7. The provider assesses the patient’s response during and after each injection to determine the concordance of pain.
8. The procedure is repeated for each necessary level, and a sterile dressing is applied to the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 62290 is performed when the provider needs to evaluate the discs of the lumbar spine using contrast and imaging. It is typically done for patients experiencing neck or back pain that may be caused by damage to the lumbar vertebrae. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and requires the use of fluoroscopy for guidance.

5. When to use CPT code 62290

CPT code 62290 should be used when the provider performs the injection procedure for discography in the lumbar region of the spine. It is appropriate when evaluating the discs of the lumbar spine using contrast and imaging. This code should not be used for procedures performed on other regions of the spine.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 62290, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and indication for discography
• Specific levels of the lumbar spine where the procedure was performed
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the use of contrast and imaging guidance
• Images taken during the procedure
• Patient’s response to the injections
• Any complications or adverse reactions
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 62290, ensure that the procedure is performed on the lumbar region of the spine. Report radiographic imaging separately if performed. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and use the appropriate modifiers if necessary. CPT code 62290 should not be reported with other codes that describe similar procedures or services.

8. Historical information

CPT 62290 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with chronic back pain undergoes a discography procedure in the lumbar region to identify the source of their pain.
2. A provider performs a discogram on a patient with suspected lumbar disc herniation to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
3. A patient with persistent neck pain undergoes a discography procedure in the lumbar region to rule out lumbar disc pathology as the cause of their symptoms.
4. A provider performs a disc stimulation on a patient with degenerative disc disease in the lumbar region to assess the integrity of the intervertebral discs.
5. A patient with radicular pain in the lower back and leg undergoes a discography procedure in the lumbar region to identify the affected disc causing the symptoms.
6. A provider performs a discogram on a patient with a history of lumbar spine trauma to evaluate the extent of disc damage.
7. A patient with chronic sciatica undergoes a discography procedure in the lumbar region to determine the appropriate surgical intervention.
8. A provider performs a disc stimulation on a patient with suspected lumbar discogenic pain to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
9. A patient with persistent lower back pain undergoes a discography procedure in the lumbar region to assess the integrity of the intervertebral discs.
10. A provider performs a discogram on a patient with suspected lumbar disc degeneration to evaluate the need for surgical intervention.