CPT® Code 38220

Diagnostic bone marrow aspiration, coded as CPT® 38220, is a medical procedure utilized to obtain samples of bone marrow for the purpose of diagnosing various hematological diseases and cancers. This procedure involves the extraction of liquid bone marrow, which is crucial for evaluating the health and function of the bone marrow, as well as for identifying any abnormalities that may indicate disease. The aspiration can be performed at different anatomical sites, with the anterior or posterior iliac crest being the most common locations. In certain cases, such as when dealing with pediatric patients under 18 months, the aspiration may also be performed from the lower leg or the breastbone. The procedure is typically performed prior to any biopsy, should both procedures be indicated, to ensure that the liquid sample is collected first. The technique requires careful navigation to avoid injury to surrounding nerves, and it involves the use of a hollow needle attached to a syringe to extract the marrow. The aspiration process is critical for obtaining sufficient samples for laboratory analysis, which can lead to a definitive diagnosis and guide subsequent treatment options.