tci ED Coding & Reimbursement Alert - 2007 Issue 11

READER QUESTIONS: Report Single Code for Drainage/Joint Injection

Question: A patient reports to the ED after falling from a ladder. She is complaining of pain in her right wrist/hand, which is swollen and red. The physician drains fluid from the wrist and injects 20 mg of Depo-Medrol into the joint. Can we report separate codes for the injection and drainage?Connecticut Subscriber Answer: CPT contains a single code to represent the injection and drainage. On the claim, therefore, you should report the following:- 20605 (Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection; intermediate joint or bursa [e.g., temporomandibular, acromioclavicular, wrist, elbow or ankle, olecranon bursa]) for the injection and drainage-...

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