64635 Destroy lumbar/sacral facet jnt
Also known as: lumbar facet radiofrequency ablation, sacral facet denervation, lumbar medial branch ablation
Destruction of the lumbar or sacral facet joint nerves using radiofrequency or thermal ablation.
In Plain Language
lower back facet joint permanent pain relief
Clinical Context
Used for lumbar facet syndrome causing chronic low back pain when conservative treatment fails.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.24 |
| Total RVU | 3.24 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.24, this code ranks in the 22nd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 64635?
CPT 64635 (Destroy lumbar/sacral facet jnt) is a Surgery code. Destruction of the lumbar or sacral facet joint nerves using radiofrequency or thermal ablation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 64635?
The work RVU for CPT 64635 is 3.24. This code is primarily used by Pain Management, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 64635 used?
Used for lumbar facet syndrome causing chronic low back pain when conservative treatment fails.
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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.