Does this sound familiar? - BILLING CODING L5 DORSAL RAMUS AND S1, S2, S3 LATERAL BRANCH BLOCK When CPT code 64451 is performed from L5 to S3, it should be reported as a single unit of service regardless of the number of sacroiliac joints injected. Each sacroiliac joint should not be counted as a separate injection. This is because the injection is being performed at the sacral plexus, which is located near the sacroiliac joint but is a different structure.
This information is supported by the American Medical Association's CPT Assistant, which states that "when injection of the sacral plexus is performed at multiple levels (e.g., L4, L5, and S1), each level should be separately identified and reported with the -59 modifier appended to the additional levels beyond the first level." However, in the scenario you described, since the injection is being performed from L5 to S3, it should be reported as a single unit of service using code 64451 without any modifiers. It is important to review the payer's specific coding and billing guidelines to ensure compliance with their policies. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has also published guidelines on the appropriate use of CPT code 64451. Source: American Medical Association. CPT Assistant. May 2013 Volume 23, Issue 5, Page 9. CMS National Correct Coding Initiative Policy Manual for Medicare Services, Chapter 11, Section H (available on the CMS website).
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Pinky Maniri-Pescasio
Founder and CEO of GoHealthcare Practice Solutions
Pinky Maniri-Pescasio, MSc, CRCR, CSAPM, CSPPM, CSBI, CSPR, CSAF, Certified in A.I. Governance is a nationally recognized leader in Revenue Cycle Management, Utilization Management, and Healthcare AI Governance with over 28 years of experience navigating Medicare, CMS regulations, and payer strategies. As the founder of GoHealthcare Practice Solutions, LLC, she partners with pain management practices, ASCs, and specialty groups across the U.S. to optimize reimbursement, strengthen compliance, and lead transformative revenue cycle operations. Known for her 98% approval rate in prior authorizations and deep command of clinical documentation standards, Pinky is also a Certified Specialist in Healthcare AI Governance and a trusted voice on CMS innovation models, value-based care, and policy trends. She regularly speaks at national conferences, including PAINWeek and OMA, and works closely with physicians, CFOs, and administrators to future-proof their practices. Current HFMA Professional Expertise Credentials: HFMA Certified Specialist in Physician Practice Management (CSPPM) HFMA Certified Specialist in Revenue Cycle Management (CRCR) HFMA Certified Specialist Payment & Reimbursement (CSPR) HFMA Certified Specialist in Business Intelligence (CSBI) search hereArchives
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