How To Use CPT Code 64510

CPT 64510 describes the injection of an anesthetic agent into the stellate ganglion, also known as the cervical sympathetic ganglion. 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 64510?

CPT 64510 is used to describe the injection of an anesthetic agent into the stellate ganglion, which is part of the sympathetic nervous system. This procedure is performed to block pain and treat conditions that cause pain in the upper extremities, head, neck, and heart. It is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of type I complex regional pain syndrome, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 64510 is: ‘Injection, anesthetic agent; stellate ganglion (cervical sympathetic)’. This code specifically refers to the injection of an anesthetic agent into the stellate ganglion to provide pain relief and manage certain conditions.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider administers a nerve block by injecting a local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, which is located in the front of the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae and extends to the first thoracic vertebra.
2. The patient is appropriately prepped and draped, and the provider uses fluoroscopy, a live X-ray imaging technique, to guide the needle into the precise location of the stellate ganglion.
3. Once the needle is correctly positioned, the provider injects the anesthetic agent into the ganglion to block pain signals and provide relief to the patient.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 64510 is performed to alleviate pain caused by various conditions, including type I complex regional pain syndrome or reflex sympathetic dystrophy. It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary expertise and training in administering nerve blocks and managing pain.

5. When to use CPT code 64510

CPT code 64510 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an injection of an anesthetic agent into the stellate ganglion to manage pain and treat specific conditions. It is important to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and appropriate for the patient’s condition before using this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 64510, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s diagnosis and the medical necessity of the procedure
• The specific anesthetic agent used for the injection
• The date and time of the procedure
• A detailed description of the procedure, including the use of fluoroscopy for guidance
• Any complications or adverse reactions that may have occurred
• The provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 64510, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the injection. It is also crucial to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company. Additionally, it is important to note that CPT code 64510 should not be reported with other codes unless specific circumstances warrant it.

8. Historical information

CPT code 64510 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 type I complex regional pain syndrome receiving an injection of an anesthetic agent into the stellate ganglion to alleviate pain in their upper extremities.
2. A patient experiencing chronic neck pain receiving a stellate ganglion block to manage their symptoms.
3. A patient with reflex sympathetic dystrophy receiving an injection into the stellate ganglion to relieve pain in their head and neck.
4. A patient with heart-related pain receiving a stellate ganglion block to alleviate their symptoms.
5. A patient with upper extremity pain following an injury receiving an injection into the stellate ganglion to manage their pain.
6. A patient with chronic headaches receiving a stellate ganglion block to alleviate their symptoms.
7. A patient with complex regional pain syndrome in their upper extremities receiving an injection into the stellate ganglion to manage their pain.
8. A patient with neck pain following a car accident receiving a stellate ganglion block to alleviate their symptoms.
9. A patient with chronic pain in their head and neck receiving an injection into the stellate ganglion to manage their symptoms.
10. A patient with heart-related pain receiving a stellate ganglion block to alleviate their symptoms.