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BackTable / VI / Article
2025 Basivertebral Nerve Ablation CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jul 31, 2025 • 38 hits
Basivertebral nerve ablation CPT codes 64628 and +64629 are used by pain management specialists, interventional radiologists, and spine surgeons to report radiofrequency ablation of the basivertebral nerve for the treatment of chronic vertebrogenic low back pain. The procedure involves targeting the nerve within the vertebral body to disrupt pain signals. This article provides guidance on appropriate coding, billing considerations, and the structure of these CPT codes.
Table of Contents
(1) CPT Code for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation
(2) Detailed Description of CPT Code 64628
(3) Coding & Billing Considerations
(4) Why Proper Coding Is Important
(5) What is a CPT Code?
(6) Disclaimer
CPT Code for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation
CPT code 64628 covers thermal destruction of the intraosseous basivertebral nerve at two vertebral bodies. For each additional vertebral body treated, add-on code +64629 is used.
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Detailed Description of CPT Code 64628
• CPT Code: 64628
• Code Description: Thermal destruction of the intraosseous basivertebral nerve, including all imaging guidance; first two vertebral bodies
• Inclusions: Imaging guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy or CT), intraosseous access, radiofrequency ablation, and post-procedural imaging
• Exclusions: Additional vertebral levels (billed separately using +64629), sedation or anesthesia services, and evaluation and management (E/M) visits
Coding & Billing Considerations
• CPT code 64628 is used for the initial two vertebral levels treated during a single session.
• Use add-on code +64629 for each additional vertebral body treated beyond the initial two.
• These codes are typically reported once per patient encounter, even if both lumbar and sacral levels are treated.
• Documentation should include vertebral levels treated, method of image guidance, and medical necessity for the procedure.
• Verify payer coverage, as some insurers may consider this a relatively new or investigational procedure.
• Append appropriate modifiers if performed in conjunction with other interventional procedures.
• Ensure ICD-10 diagnosis codes align with chronic vertebrogenic low back pain indications.
Why Proper Coding Is Important
Accurate coding of basivertebral nerve ablation ensures appropriate reimbursement and reduces the risk of claim denials. Correct use of CPT 64628 and +64629 reflects the complexity of the procedure and the resources required. It also supports medical necessity documentation and compliance with payer guidelines, helping streamline audits and prior authorization processes.
What is a CPT Code?
CPT stands for Current Procedural Terminology. These codes are used by medical professionals to describe procedures and services performed. CPT codes are crucial for the billing process, allowing healthcare providers to communicate with insurance companies and other payers about the procedures performed.
Disclaimer
The information provided here reflects our understanding of the procedure(s) and/or device(s). This information should not be construed as authoritative. We encourage you to consult CMS.
Podcast Contributors
Dr. Olivier Clerk-Lamalice
Dr. Olivier Clerk-Lamalice is an interventional radiologist that specializes in interventional pain management and diagnostic imaging in Calgary, Canada.
Dr. Jacob Fleming
Dr. Jacob Fleming is a diagnostic radiology resident and future MSK interventional radiologist in Dallas, Texas.
Cite This Podcast
BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2023, April 28). Ep. 316 – Basivertebral Nerve Ablation [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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