What code must be reported when a patient receives fine-needle aspiration for two separate lesions?

When coding for fine-needle aspiration (FNA) procedures, it is crucial to accurately represent the number of lesions being aspirated. The codes provided serve to differentiate based on the nature of the procedure and the number of lesions targeted.

Code 10021 is utilized when performing a fine-needle aspiration of a single lesion, while code 10022 is specifically designated for aspirations of multiple lesions done in a single session. In the scenario where the patient receives aspiration for two separate lesions during the same encounter, both codes are applicable. The use of both codes, therefore, captures the performance of the procedure on each lesion and adheres to coding guidelines that dictate that separate codes should be reported for each distinct target area when applicable.

The combined reporting of both codes ensures that the complexity and thoroughness of the procedure are accurately reflected in the documentation and reimbursement process. This adherence to coding guidelines is essential for proper billing and to avoid potential denials from payers. Thus, reporting both codes is the correct approach for this situation.