CPT 64483 is a transforaminal epidural injection at one level of the lumbar or sacral spine, under imaging guidance: steroid and anesthetic placed precisely where a nerve root exits the spine. It is used for sciatica and nerve pain from a disc or narrowing, and as a diagnostic test before surgery. Additional levels use an add-on code (64484).
What the price covers
The hospital's price is the facility fee for the procedure room, fluoroscopy, nursing and supplies for one level. The physician, sedation and additional levels are separate. A series of injections is common.
Why prices vary
As with other spinal injections, hospital outpatient prices are typically several times those of pain clinics and ambulatory surgery centers for the same procedure. Within hospitals, large systems list the highest charges.
Questions to ask
- What is the self-pay price for 64483 per level, and what does the physician add?
- How many levels and how many sessions are planned?
- Is a pain clinic or surgery center an option for the same injection?