20600 drainage/injection joint/bursa without ultrasound
Also known as: joint injection, joint aspiration, arthrocentesis, small joint injection, finger joint injection
Arthrocentesis (joint aspiration and/or injection) performed without ultrasound or imaging guidance. This procedure accesses joint space for fluid removal or medication injection.
In Plain Language
needle into joint for fluid removal or medication
Clinical Context
Used for aspiration of joint effusions, injection of corticosteroids or viscosupplementation, or diagnostic sampling of synovial fluid.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.64 |
| Total RVU | 0.64 |
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 0.64, this code ranks in the 2nd percentile among Surgery codes — 12.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20600?
CPT 20600 (drainage/injection joint/bursa without ultrasound) is a Surgery code. Arthrocentesis (joint aspiration and/or injection) performed without ultrasound or imaging guidance. This procedure accesses joint space for fluid removal or medication injection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20600?
The work RVU for CPT 20600 is 0.64. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology, Primary Care.
When is CPT 20600 used?
Used for aspiration of joint effusions, injection of corticosteroids or viscosupplementation, or diagnostic sampling of synovial fluid.
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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.