What is cooled radiofrequency ablation?
Cooled radiofrequency ablation (CRFA) is the targeted thermal damage of nerve structures to interrupt the transmission of pain signals. Pain is believed to be attenuated while the nerve structure is restored 21. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of CRFA in managing knee osteoarthritis pain 22 – 28.
What is radiofrequency ablation of knee?
RFA is a minimally invasive outpatient surgery and is typically used for pain from osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, or a previous injury. The physician uses x-ray guided needles that have a gentle electric current to “ablate” (or burn off) the nerves causing the pain.
What is the CPT code for radiofrequency ablation?
Neurolytic Destruction Procedures (Radiofrequency Ablation): Per the current CPT Professional edition code book, codes 64633, 64634, 64635, and 64636 are reported per joint, not per nerve.
What is COOLIEF for knees?
COOLIEF* is the first and only radiofrequency treatment cleared by the FDA for moderate to severe OA knee pain. It is a minimally invasive, non-narcotic procedure that treats chronic back, knee, and hip pain and can last for up to a year (for some people with chronic back pain, up to two years).
How long does a knee ablation take?
Most patients report some pain relief almost immediately. The needle is then removed and you will be taken to the recovery room. The procedure itself takes 10-15 minutes. You will be observed for an additional 15 minutes after the procedure is complete.
Does insurance cover knee ablation?
The procedure is relatively simple and typically covered by insurance. While the procedure may vary by medical center, here is how it’s generally performed. First, your pain specialist will review your medical history and complete a physical exam.
Is knee ablation covered by Medicare?
Does Medicare cover radiofrequency ablation? In many cases, the answer is yes, as long as the procedure is deemed medically necessary.
What is CPT code 64633?
Coding Guidelines 64633 Destruction of Paravertebral Facet Joint Nerve(s) Image guidance (fluoroscopy or CT) and the injection of an additional substance (e.g., anesthetic, contrast material) are considered inclusive components of procedure codes 64633-64636, and are not separately reimbursable.
What does CPT code 64494 mean?
Injection of Anesthetic Agent
CPT® Code 64494 – Introduction/Injection of Anesthetic Agent (Nerve Block), Diagnostic or Therapeutic Procedures on the Paravertebral Spinal Nerves and Branches – Codify by AAPC.
What does CPT code 64999 mean?
Unlisted procedure, nervous system
“Use CPT code 64999 (Unlisted procedure, nervous system) for pulsed radiofrequency and the denervation procedures of the sacroiliac joint/nerves. Pulsed radiofrequency for denervation is considered investigational and therefore, not medically necessary.”
What does CPT code 64640 mean?
CPT code 64640 is applicable to iovera° treatments applied to peripheral nerves and is used to bill for EACH of the peripheral nerve or nerve branches treated.