Modifier -50, Bilateral Procedure
You will append modifier 50 for procedures that are obviously billable as bilateral (or two sides, both
sides), performed on the same day, the same operative session, on identical anatomical sites,
organs (arms, legs, spine).
A Facet Nerve block is unilateral (can be billed as bilateral). When using a modifier 50, make sure
you only bill for one unit on the claim form since there is only 1 procedure is performed bilaterally.
Though guidelines from other payers may differ. They may require you to list it twice (line 1 and line 2
on the claim form). You are responsible to clarify this with your payors.
You use this modifier with add-on codes too! Do not use this modifier with procedures which are
already described as bilateral procedures.
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(American Medical Association).
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