Aurora Burlington Charges $2,220 for Injection of Facet Joint with Imaging for Three or More Levels

The Injection of Facet Joint with Imaging for Three or More Levels is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic back pain, often caused by arthritis or degenerative spine conditions affecting multiple vertebral levels. Priced at $2,220 at Aurora Medical Center Burlington, this fee typically covers the administration of medication into the facet joints under real-time imaging guidance (such as fluoroscopy or CT), which ensures precise needle placement and maximizes treatment effectiveness. Key cost components usually included are facility fees, professional fees for the physician, imaging charges, and standard supplies. Before scheduling, patients are encouraged to request a fully itemized estimate and clarify what is (and is not) included, as additional costs such as pre-procedure consultations, sedation, or follow-up care may not be bundled in the quoted price.

Cost Breakdown

• Procedure Fee: $2,220 (includes injection for three or more facet joint levels and use of imaging guidance)
• Likely Included: Facility charges, physician’s fee, imaging (fluoroscopy/CT), basic supplies
• Potential Additional Costs: Pre-procedure consultation, anesthesia/sedation (if needed), post-procedure observation, prescription medications, follow-up appointments

Associated Costs to Consider

• Pre-procedure lab work or imaging (MRI, X-rays)
• Additional pain management therapies if needed
• Physical therapy after the procedure
• Repeat injections (if ongoing pain relief is required)

Insurance & Payment Advice

• Check with your insurer to confirm coverage, deductible, and copayment obligations for this CPT code.
• Ask if prior authorization is required for the procedure and imaging.
• Request an itemized bill to ensure full transparency of all charges.
• Inquire about prompt-pay discounts, financial assistance, or payment plans if paying out-of-pocket.

Recovery and Side-Effect Considerations

• Most patients can resume normal activities within 24–48 hours.
• Temporary soreness or mild discomfort at the injection site is common.
• Rare risks include infection, bleeding, allergic reaction, or nerve irritation.
• Follow all post-procedure instructions, and contact your provider if unusual symptoms occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does the $2,220 fee typically include?
  The fee usually covers the injection procedure, use of imaging guidance, facility charges, and physician services, but may not include consultation, sedation, or follow-up visits.
• Is the procedure covered by insurance?
  Coverage depends on your insurance plan; most policies cover medically necessary facet injections but may require prior authorization and copayments.
• Will I need more than one injection?
  Some patients experience long-term relief from a single session, while others may require periodic repeat injections based on their response and underlying condition.
• How long does the procedure take?
  The injection itself typically takes 20–40 minutes, though you may be at the facility longer for preparation and observation.
• Are there any side effects?
  Common side effects include temporary soreness, mild swelling, or bruising at the injection site; serious complications are rare.
• Can I return to work the same day?
  Most people can resume light activities the same day, but it’s best to arrange for a ride home and discuss activity restrictions with your provider.
• Do I need someone to drive me home?
  If sedation is used, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home; if only local anesthesia is used, you may be able to drive yourself after the procedure.
• How should I prepare for the procedure?
  Your provider will give specific instructions, which may include fasting if sedation is planned and avoiding certain medications.
• What happens if the injection doesn’t relieve my pain?
  If you don’t experience significant relief, your provider may suggest alternative treatments or additional diagnostic evaluation.
• Can I see a detailed bill before I commit?
  Yes, you have the right to request a detailed, itemized estimate of all expected charges before your procedure.

Aurora Medical Center Burlington, located at 252 McHenry St, Burlington, WI, offers a specialized medical service known as the Injection of Facet Joint with Imaging for Three or More Levels, priced at $2,220. This procedure involves the injection of medication into the facet joints of the spine, which are small stabilizing joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae, to alleviate pain and inflammation. The use of imaging technology ensures precise placement of the injection, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. This service is particularly beneficial for patients suffering from chronic back pain due to arthritis or other degenerative conditions affecting multiple levels of the spine.

What is the Injection of Facet Joint with Imaging for Three or More Levels? – It is a medical procedure that involves injecting medication into the facet joints of the spine to relieve pain, using imaging technology to guide the injection for accuracy.

Why is imaging used during the procedure? – Imaging is used to ensure the precise placement of the injection, which increases the effectiveness of the treatment and minimizes risks.

Who can benefit from this procedure? – Patients suffering from chronic back pain due to arthritis or degenerative spine conditions affecting multiple levels can benefit from this procedure.

How much does the procedure cost at Aurora Medical Center Burlington? – The cost of the Injection of Facet Joint with Imaging for Three or More Levels at Aurora Medical Center Burlington is $2,220.

Is this procedure covered by insurance? – Coverage for this procedure varies by insurance provider and plan, so it is essential for patients to check with their insurance company for specific details.

What are the potential risks of this procedure? – As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, or nerve damage, but these are minimized with the use of imaging guidance.

How long does the procedure take? – The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and the number of levels being treated.

What is the recovery time after the procedure? – Recovery time is generally short, with most patients able to resume normal activities within a day or two, although some may experience temporary soreness at the injection site.