2025 CPT code 20701
Removal of drug-delivery device(s), deep (eg, subfascial). This code is reported separately in addition to the code for the primary procedure.
Medical necessity for the removal of a drug-delivery device is determined by the underlying condition necessitating removal (e.g., infection, malfunction, etc.)
With the patient prepared and under anesthesia for a primary procedure, the provider opens the previous incision(s). They dissect through the subcutaneous tissues to the deep subfascial tissues and remove the pump from between the fascial and muscle layers. They cauterize any bleeding, disconnect the intrathecal catheter, and remove it. After ensuring hemostasis, they close the wound in layers and apply a bandage.
In simple words: The doctor removes a medicine pump from under the muscle and skin layers during a separate, main procedure.
The provider removes a previously placed drug delivery device from deep, subfascial tissues and closes the incision in layers as part of a separate primary procedure. This code must be reported in addition to the code for the primary procedure. A subfascial pump and intrathecal catheter may have been placed for the delivery of baclofen, a drug commonly used to control muscle spasms in patients with cerebral palsy and other spastic conditions. Removal may be required for a number of reasons, such as infection, dislocation, separation of pump and catheter, or other causes.
Example 1: A patient with cerebral palsy has a baclofen pump that has become infected. The pump needs to be removed, and 20701 is reported in addition to the primary procedure code., A patient with a baclofen pump experiences a separation of the pump and catheter. The pump needs to be removed, and 20701 is reported in addition to the primary procedure code., A patient has a baclofen pump that has become dislocated. During a surgical procedure for pump replacement, 20701 is reported for removal of the dislocated pump, along with the code for pump insertion.
Documentation should include the primary procedure being performed, the reason for the pump removal, the location of the pump, and any complications encountered.
** For manual preparation and insertion of a drug delivery device, report +20700. For insertion and removal of an intramedullary device, see +20702 and +20703. For insertion and removal of an intra-articular drug delivery device, see +20704 and +20705.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery, Pain Management
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center