2025 CPT code 62273

Injection of blood or clot patch into the epidural space to seal a cerebrospinal fluid leak.

Fluoroscopic guidance and localization is an inclusive component of this code.The procedure should be reported only once, even if multiple injections are required over several days.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the service provided, such as 59 (distinct procedural service) if other procedures are performed on the same day.

Medical necessity for an epidural blood patch is established when a patient experiences a post-dural puncture headache that is refractory to conservative management (e.g., bed rest, hydration, analgesics).The procedure is considered medically necessary to alleviate the headache and prevent potential complications associated with prolonged CSF leakage.

An anesthesiologist or other qualified healthcare professional typically performs this procedure.The provider's responsibilities include patient assessment, selecting the appropriate injection site under imaging guidance, injecting the blood sample, monitoring the patient's response, and providing post-procedure instructions.

IMPORTANT For injection of diagnostic or therapeutic substance(s), see 62320, 62321, 62322, 62323, 62324, 62325, 62326, 62327.

In simple words: The doctor injects the patient's own blood into the area around the spinal cord to stop a spinal fluid leak that's causing a headache. The blood forms a clot to seal the leak.

This procedure involves injecting a patient's autologous blood into the epidural space to seal a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, often resulting from a previous spinal puncture.The blood clot forms a seal, resolving low CSF pressure and treating post-dural puncture headaches.Fluoroscopic guidance and localization are included components.

Example 1: A patient presents with a severe headache following a lumbar puncture, consistent with a post-dural puncture headache.An epidural blood patch is performed to seal the dural tear and relieve the headache., A patient experiences a persistent CSF leak and headache after an epidural steroid injection.An epidural blood patch is administered to stop the leak and alleviate the symptoms., A patient develops a post-spinal headache after an elective spinal surgery.An epidural blood patch is performed under fluoroscopy to confirm accurate placement and successfully seal the dural defect.

** This procedure is considered a relatively low-risk intervention, however, potential complications include recurrent headache, hematoma formation, infection, and nerve damage.Appropriate patient selection and careful technique are crucial for optimal outcomes.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
  • Specialties:Anesthesiology, Neurology, Neurosurgery
  • Place of Service:Office, Hospital Inpatient, Hospital Outpatient, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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