From biopsy to localization device to mastectomy, coding for breast procedures can be challenging. This article summarizes the rules related to these services.
Fine needle aspiration of a breast mass, or aspiration of a cyst
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) of a breast mass is reported with codes 10021—10012. CPT® developed new codes for FNA in 2019. These codes are reported when aspiration occurs and the material is sent for pathologic examination.
Three significant changes occurred in 2019.
- First CPT® code 10022 (FNA with image guidance) was deleted.
- Second, there are codes for use without image guidance (10021, +10005), and codes to be used when an FNA is done with imaging guidance, including ultrasound guidance (10005, +10006, with fluoroscopic imaging (10007, +10008).
- And finally, with CT guidance (10009, +10010) and with MR guidance (10011, +10012).
You can see the addition of add-on codes. These are out of sequence codes. There is a CodingIntel article describing them.
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