CPT code 77003 refers to using imaging technology to help guide a needle to the right spot in or near the spine for certain types of injections. CPT 77003 represents “Fluoroscopic guidance and localization of needle or catheter tip for spine or paraspinous diagnostic or therapeutic injection procedures (epidural or subarachnoid) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure uses special imaging equipment, sort of like a real-time X-ray, to help the doctor see where they are placing a needle or a small tube near the spine. This is important for injections that are used either to diagnose a problem or to provide relief from pain. The procedure itself does not include the injection or treatment; it is just the guidance part to make sure everything is positioned correctly.
Common Names:
- Fluoroscopic Needle Guidance
- Spinal Needle Localization
- Epidural Fluoroscopy
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.6.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Needle Guidance with Fluoroscopy
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Fluoroscopic Guidance for Needle Placement
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients who have back pain or other conditions that need investigation or relief through precise spinal injections. For example, someone with a herniated disc might undergo this procedure to make sure an injection is delivered to the exact right spot to alleviate pain or improve their condition.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M51.26: Represents a herniated lumbar disc, which is a common cause of lower back pain requiring spinal injections.
- M54.5: Denotes low back pain, often leading to treatments like spinal injections aimed at pain relief.
- M54.16: Refers to radiculopathy in the lumbar region, a condition where nerve pain may benefit from targeted spinal injections.
Summary
In summary, code 77003 describes the process of guiding a needle precisely into or near the spine using fluoroscopy, necessary for certain injections that require exact placement. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 77003 include M51.26 (herniated lumbar disc) and M54.5 (low back pain).
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.