What is the CPT code for a facet cyst aspiration?

64999
CPT/HCPCS Codes Note: Report CPT code 64999 when facet cyst aspiration/rupture is performed.

What is a facet joint cyst?

Facet joint cysts, also called synovial cysts, are benign, fluid-filled sacs that develop due to degeneration of the facet joints of the spine.

Is a facet cyst a synovial cyst?

Synovial cysts develop in the facet (fass-ET) joints of the spine. These are the joints between the bony projections at the back of the vertebrae.

How do they remove a facet cyst?

How is a Facet Joint Cyst Removed? To remove the cyst and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves your doctor will perform a procedure called microdecompression. This is often followed by fusion of the adjacent vertebrae to avoid recurrence of the cyst.

What does CPT code 64495 mean?

CPT 64495 – Injection(s), diagnostic or therapeutic agent, paravertebral facet (zygapophyseal) joint (or nerves innervating that joint) with image guidance (fluoroscopy or CT), lumbar or sacral; third and any additional level(s)

What causes a facet cyst?

When facet joints age and start to wear down, cartilage, the body’s natural lubricant, deteriorates. In response, the body may produce more synovial fluid in an attempt to keep the joints moving smoothly. It is thought that synovial cysts form when this extra fluid builds up inside one section of the synovial sac.

What is a cyst that is on the L4 and L5?

Synovial cysts develop as a result of degeneration in the facet joint in the lumbar spine. It is typically a process that only happens in the lumbar spine, and it almost always develops at the L4-L5 level (rarely at L3-L4).

How serious is a cyst on your spine?

Spinal cysts are known as a benign, non cancerous lumps, which means that they are, inherently, not harmful to your body.

Should a cyst on the spine be removed?

Synovial cysts develop in joints in your spine and, though they’re benign, they can grow large enough to pinch spinal nerves. The physicians at Spinetech offer a range of interventional treatments to manage your pain without surgery, but when your symptoms worsen, synovial cyst removal is the best option.

What is the difference between 64635 and 64636?

The following CPT codes need to be listed separately in addition to a code for the primary procedure: 64491, 64494, 64634, and 64636….Group 1.

Code Description
64634 Destroy c/th facet jnt addl
64635 Destroy lumb/sac facet jnt
64636 Destroy l/s facet jnt addl
64999 Nervous system surgery