CPT code 20605 refers to a procedure where fluid is removed from or medication is injected into a medium-sized joint, like your wrist or elbow, to relieve pain or swelling.
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves either drawing out fluid or delivering medication into a medium-sized joint without using ultrasound for guidance. It doesn’t cover additional imaging or guidance methods, and typically focuses on joints such as the wrist or elbow.
Common Names:
- Joint Aspiration
- Intermediate Joint Injection
- Arthrocentesis
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.68.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Joint aspiration or injection
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Aspiration or injection of joint fluid
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly performed on individuals experiencing joint pain or swelling. For example, someone with arthritis or a sports injury might undergo this procedure to alleviate pain or address swelling caused by excess fluid in the joint.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M25.52: This code refers to joint pain specifically in the elbow.
- M25.531: This code describes swelling in your right wrist joint.
- M25.579: This code represents swelling in an unspecified ankle, meaning it’s unclear if it’s the left or right ankle.
Summary
In summary, code 20605 describes the process of either withdrawing fluid from or injecting medication into a medium-sized joint to relieve discomfort. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 20605 include M25.52 (joint pain in the elbow) and M25.531 (swelling in the right wrist joint).
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.