CPT code 20550 refers to a procedure where a doctor injects medication into a specific area, such as a tendon or ligament, to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Procedure Explanation:
This medical procedure involves injecting medicine into the protective coverings of tendons, ligaments, or similar structures in the body. It does not involve injecting into other areas like joints or muscles. The main goal is to relieve pain often caused by inflammation or injury, similar to conditions affecting the foot’s plantar fascia.
Common Names:
- Tendon Injection
- Ligament Injection
- Plantar Fascia Injection
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.75.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Tendon or ligament injection
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Injection for tendon or ligament inflammation
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly used for patients experiencing painful conditions caused by tendonitis or similar issues. For example, someone with plantar fasciitis, which causes heel pain due to an inflamed tissue band in the foot, might benefit from this injection. It’s also used for injuries where there is inflammation in the structures that support movement.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M72.2: Plantar fasciitis, which involves pain in the heel and bottom of the foot from inflamed tissue.
- M65.4: Other tendonitis, which refers to inflammation of tendons elsewhere in the body.
- M76.60: Achilles tendonitis, indicating inflammation of the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel.
Summary
In summary, code 20550 describes a procedure used to inject medication into tissues like tendons or ligaments to relieve pain. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 20550 include M72.2 (Plantar fasciitis) and M65.4 (Other tendonitis).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.