CPT code 64493: Lumbar or sacral facet joint injection
Learn about CPT code 64493 for lumbar or sacral facet joint injections, including documentation, billing guidelines, and related codes.
What is CPT code 64493?
CPT code 64493 is used to report the injection of a diagnostic or therapeutic agent into a lumbar or sacral paravertebral facet (zygapophyseal) joint or into the associated medial branch nerves under fluoroscopy or CT guidance. This procedure is commonly performed for patients experiencing chronic lower back pain related to conditions such as facet joint arthritis, inflammation, degeneration, or trauma. It plays a critical role in pain management strategies, especially when conservative therapies have failed.
The injected therapeutic agent often includes a combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and interrupt pain signals. The injection serves either as a diagnostic tool to confirm facet-mediated pain or as a therapeutic intervention to provide sustained pain relief.
CPT 64493 is part of a family of codes used for facet joint interventions. This code specifically refers to the first spinal level treated in the lumbar or sacral region. When multiple facet levels are addressed during the same encounter, it is billed as the primary procedure. For injections at additional levels, codes 64494 (second level) and 64495 (third and additional levels) should be reported.
Regarding facet injection coding practices, it’s important to note that image guidance (fluoroscopy or CT) is included in the code and should not be reported separately.
Documentation requirements
To support medical necessity and align with correct coding guidelines, documentation for CPT 64493 should include:
- Patient history and physical exam: Document the patient’s pain history, prior treatments, physical exam findings, and rationale for the facet joint injection.
- Indication for the procedure: Include diagnosis codes reflecting conditions such as lumbar spondylosis, facet arthropathy, or post-laminectomy syndrome that justify the need for the injection.
- Procedure details: Clearly describe the facet joint(s) or associated nerves injected, the agent used, and the level of the spine treated (e.g., L4-L5, L5-S1).
- Image guidance: State that fluoroscopy or CT guidance was used, and confirm that permanent images were stored in the medical record, as this is required for appropriate reporting and reimbursement.
- Therapeutic or diagnostic purpose: Note whether the injection was performed for therapeutic relief or diagnostic evaluation to guide future treatment decisions.
- Provider performing the service: The documentation must be signed by the physician or qualified healthcare provider performing the procedure.
Billing guidelines
Correct billing and coding of CPT 64493 requires close attention to payer rules and documentation standards:
Report 64493 for the first spinal level
This code represents the initial lumbar or sacral facet joint treated on a given day. If additional levels are injected, use CPT 64494 for the second level and CPT 64495 for the third and any subsequent levels.
Include image guidance
Per CPT instructions, fluoroscopy or CT guidance is included in the code; therefore, do not bill separately for imaging guidance.
Use appropriate diagnosis codes
Link to ICD-10 codes that reflect conditions such as M47.816: Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, lumbar region or M54.16: Radiculopathy, lumbar region to support medical necessity.
Observe frequency limitations
Many payers, including Medicare, limit facet joint injections to no more than three sessions per year. Be sure to document any exceptions thoroughly.
Review local coverage determinations (LCDs)
Check with your Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for region-specific rules, which may vary and affect coverage or documentation requirements.
Other relevant CPT codes
- 64494: Injection of diagnostic or therapeutic agent, lumbar or sacral facet joint, second level
- 64495: Injection, lumbar or sacral facet joint, third and any additional levels
Commonly asked questions
CPT code 64493 is used to report the first level of a lumbar or sacral facet joint injection, while CPT code 64494 is used to report the second level injected during the same session. If more than two levels are treated, CPT 64495 is used for the third and any additional levels.
When performing a bilateral facet joint injection at the same spinal level, you should report CPT 64493 with modifier 50 (bilateral procedure) or submit the code on two lines with RT and LT modifiers, depending on the payer’s preference. Be sure to document the medical necessity for treating both sides and check with your Medicare Administrative Contractor for specific billing requirements.
CPT code 64999 is an unlisted procedure code for the nervous system, used when no specific CPT code applies. Medicare may cover 64999 when supported by thorough documentation, a clear description of the procedure performed, and an appropriate comparison to an existing payable code—but prior authorization or further review is often required.
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