20551 Njx 1 tendon origin/insj
Also known as: tendon origin/insertion injection, enthesis injection
Injection of therapeutic agent at the origin or insertion point of a single tendon for treatment of tendinopathy or enthesopathy. This targets the tendon-bone interface.
In Plain Language
injection at where tendon attaches to bone
Clinical Context
Used for treatment of tendinitis, epicondylitis (tennis elbow/golfer's elbow), or insertional tendinopathy. Reduces inflammation at tendon-bone junction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.73 |
| Total RVU | 0.73 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.73, this code ranks in the 2nd percentile among Surgery codes — 11.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20551?
CPT 20551 (Njx 1 tendon origin/insj) is a Surgery code. Injection of therapeutic agent at the origin or insertion point of a single tendon for treatment of tendinopathy or enthesopathy. This targets the tendon-bone interface.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20551?
The work RVU for CPT 20551 is 0.73. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine.
When is CPT 20551 used?
Used for treatment of tendinitis, epicondylitis (tennis elbow/golfer's elbow), or insertional tendinopathy. Reduces inflammation at tendon-bone junction.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.