Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code 64490 is a code used to describe a procedure called “injection(s), anesthetic agent and/or steroid, paravertebral facet (zygapophyseal) joint (or nerves innervating that joint)”. This procedure involves injecting an anesthetic agent and/or steroid into the paravertebral facet joint (located in the spine) or the nerves innervating that joint.
The paravertebral facet joints, also known as zygapophyseal joints, are located in the spine and allow for movement and stability. These joints can become inflamed or damaged due to a variety of factors, such as age, injury, or degenerative conditions, and can cause pain in the neck, lower back, or upper back.
The procedure described by CPT code 64490 is typically used to treat pain in these areas caused by inflammation or damage to the facet joints. It may also be used to diagnose the source of pain in these areas.
During the procedure, a healthcare provider will use a needle to inject an anesthetic agent and/or steroid into the paravertebral facet joint or the nerves innervating that joint. The anesthetic agent helps to numb the area and reduce pain, while the steroid helps to reduce inflammation.
CPT code 64490 may be used in conjunction with other codes to describe the specific details of the procedure, such as the type of anesthetic or steroid used, the number of injections administered, and the specific area of the spine treated.
It’s important to note that CPT codes are constantly being updated and revised, so it’s important to use the most current version of the CPT code manual or an up-to-date online resource when looking up codes.
Overall, CPT code 64490 is a useful tool for accurately and consistently describing a procedure that is often used to treat pain in the neck, lower back, or upper back caused by inflammation or damage to the facet joints. It is a crucial part of the medical billing and coding process and helps to ensure that healthcare providers are fairly compensated for their services and that patients are accurately billed for the care they receive.