CPT code 20610 refers to a procedure where fluid is drawn from or medicine is injected into a large joint, like the knee, hip, or shoulder, without using ultrasound for guidance.
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves using a needle to either take out excess fluid from a major joint or to inject medication into it. The procedure doesn’t use ultrasound to help guide where to put the needle. This can be used to relieve pain, swelling, or to collect fluid for testing to find out what’s causing joint problems.
Common Names:
- Joint Aspiration
- Joint Injection
- Arthrocentesis
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.79.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Joint Injection/Aspiration
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Joint Aspiration or Injection without Ultrasound
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is common for patients experiencing joint pain or swelling. For example, people with arthritis or those who have injured a joint might have this procedure. It can also be used to alleviate pressure in the joint or for diagnosing joint-related issues by analyzing the drawn fluid.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M25.50: Pain in unspecified joint, suitable for those who have joint pain but a specific cause hasn’t been identified.
- M17.11: Unilateral primary osteoarthritis of the right knee, often used for patients with arthritis in a single knee.
- M75.51: Bursitis of the right shoulder, relevant for those suffering from inflammation in the shoulder area.
Summary
In summary, code 20610 describes a procedure where fluid is either drawn from or medication is injected into a major joint without using ultrasound guidance. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 20610 include M25.50 (joint pain) and M17.11 (osteoarthritis of the knee).
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.