TAP Block?

Question:

I am new to coding pain management procedures. Please explain what a TAP procedure is and why it is typically performed. I am unfamiliar with this procedure and what CPT code to use.

Answer:

Thank you for your inquiry. A Transverse Abdominis Plane (TAP) block is a regional anesthesia technique used to manage abdominal pain. The physician injects a local anesthetic into the plane between the internal oblique and the transversus abdominis muscles during the procedure. The anesthetic blocks the nerves that supply sensation to the anterior abdominal wall, providing pain relief for the patient.

TAP blocks are commonly used for diagnostic purposes, such as differentiating between abdominal wall pain and visceral pain, postoperative pain management after abdominal surgeries, hernia repairs, and appendectomies, or to treat chronic pain syndromes such as chronic abdominal wall pain.

Several CPT codes are available for this procedure, and the use of one will depend upon the documentation in the operative note and whether the procedure is performed unilaterally or bilaterally or by injection or continuous infusion. The CPT codes include imaging guidance when performed, so there is no additional reporting.

TAP blocks reported by injection (s)

64486: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block (abdominal plane block, rectus sheath block) unilateral; by injection(s) (includes imaging guidance, when performed)

64488: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block (abdominal plane block, rectus sheath block) bilateral; by injections (includes imaging guidance, when performed)

TAP blocks reported by continuous infusions (catheter placement is included)

64487: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block (abdominal plane block, rectus sheath block) unilateral; by continuous infusion(s) (includes imaging guidance, when performed)

64489: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block (abdominal plane block, rectus sheath block) bilateral; by continuous infusions (includes imaging guidance, when performed)

*This response is based on the best information available as of 1/30/25.