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The CPT® Code 19290 refers to the preoperative placement of a needle localization wire in the breast. This procedure is performed with the aid of imaging guidance, which may include techniques such as ultrasound or mammography. The primary objective of this procedure is to accurately locate a targeted mass within the breast tissue. During the procedure, a physician inserts a hollow needle through the skin of the breast, positioning it directly over the identified mass. Inside this needle, a guidewire is threaded and advanced into the mass itself. This guidewire serves as a marker, allowing the surgeon to precisely locate the mass during subsequent surgical interventions, such as an excision or biopsy, which will occur in a separate operative session. The use of needle localization is particularly important in cases where the mass is not palpable or is difficult to visualize, ensuring that the surgical team can effectively target the area of concern for further evaluation or treatment.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure described by CPT® Code 19290 is indicated for various clinical scenarios where precise localization of a breast mass is necessary prior to surgical intervention. The following conditions may warrant the use of needle localization:
The procedure for the preoperative placement of a needle localization wire involves several critical steps to ensure accuracy and safety. The following outlines the procedural steps as described:
Following the placement of the needle localization wire, the patient may experience some discomfort or tenderness at the insertion site. It is important for the healthcare team to provide instructions regarding care for the site, including keeping it clean and dry. The patient will typically be scheduled for the surgical procedure to excise or biopsy the mass in a separate session. During this time, the surgical team will utilize the guidewire to accurately locate the targeted mass. Patients should be informed about potential signs of complications, such as increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection, and advised to contact their healthcare provider if these occur. Overall, the post-procedure phase is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition to the subsequent surgical intervention.
Short Descr | PLACE NEEDLE WIRE BREAST | Medium Descr | PREOP PLACEMENT LOCALIZATION WIRE BREAST | Long Descr | Preoperative placement of needle localization wire, breast; | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | STV-Packaged Codes | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P1G - Major procedure - Other | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 165 - Breast biopsy and other diagnostic procedures on breast |
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2014-01-01 | Deleted | Code deleted, see 19081-19086, 19281-19288 |
2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
2010-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
1993-01-01 | Added | Code added. |