ED Coding and Reimbursement Alert
Reader Question:
Using -RT/-LT on the Pelvis
Published on Mon Apr 01, 2002
Question: Is it appropriate to put RT/LT modifiers on an x-ray of the pelvis?
Alaska Subscriber
Answer: No modifiers are necessary for the pelvis because the standard view shows both sides. -RT/-LT modifiers would therefore not be necessary. You can use either 72170 (Radiologic examination, pelvis; one or two views) or 72190 ( complete, minimum of three views).
Additionally, more specialized views of the pelvis are inlet-outlet, which also do not require -RT/-LT modifiers. Isolated views of the hip would, however, require the use of the -RT/-LT modifiers.
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