If a patient undergoes only a bone marrow aspiration, which code is appropriate to report?

The appropriate code for reporting a bone marrow aspiration procedure is 38220. This code specifically describes the aspiration of bone marrow from the pelvis, sternum, or other sites, indicating that a simple aspiration is being performed.

In contrast, the other codes provided correspond to different procedures. For example, 38221 pertains to a bone marrow biopsy, which involves the removal of a core of bone marrow tissue along with aspiration. Code 38230 encompasses bone marrow aspiration or biopsy from a site other than the sternum or pelvis, indicating a different approach and perhaps additional complexity. Lastly, 38240 relates to the collection of peripheral blood stem cells, which is a separate procedure used for specific treatments, such as transplants.

Thus, selecting code 38220 is appropriate only for the specific service of performing a bone marrow aspiration without additional procedures or complications.