The code
| Code | Used for | Base units |
|---|---|---|
| 01810 | Procedures on nerves, muscles, tendons and fascia of the forearm, wrist and hand | 3 |
Base units shown are the standard values most payers use. Check your payer and the current year's CMS base unit file before relying on them.
Bone procedures on the forearm, wrist and hand use other codes in the same range. Code from the operative note.
MAC and Bier blocks
- MAC: add QS with your staffing modifier.
- IV regional anesthesia (Bier block): this is the anesthetic, so it's billed with the anesthesia code and time. It isn't a separate block.
- Brachial plexus block as the anesthetic: same rule. It's part of the anesthesia code, not a separate procedure.
Short cases, careful times
When a case runs 20 minutes, every minute you miss is a real share of the payment. Record exact start and stop times.
This article is general information, not billing, legal or tax advice. Payer rules change; always check current guidance.
Sources
- CMS: Medicare Claims Processing Manual, Chapter 12 (Anesthesia)
- Maryland Workers' Compensation Commission: anesthesia base unit values