Radiology Coding Alert

Think you know the difference between a lower leg and a joint MRI? Several kinds of injuries come into your radiology practice every day, and even the most experienced of coders can get tripped up on the intricacies of the diagnostic radiology procedure codes. Knowing the differences between the ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and X-ray CPT^® codes is important to ensure proper reporting.

Read through these three scenarios to test your radiology exam coding skills.

Nail Down Neck Pain X-rays

Question 1: The radiologist saw a 67-year-old patient presenting symptoms of neck pain. The order requested images of the C1-C7 vertebrae. The radiologist used X-rays to capture a lateral view of the cervical vertebrae and the C7-T1 junction, an anteroposterior (AP) view, and an odontoid view with the patient’s mouth open.Which code(s) should you use to document the procedure?

A) 72040

B) 72050

C) 72052

D) 72020

Determine the Differences Between CT Scan with Contrast Codes

Question 2: An operative note indicates the radiologist performed a CT scan of the patient’s thoracic vertebrae. Prior to the procedure, the radiologist injected a dye into the upper and middle back to improve the visibility of the patient’s internal structures.

Which code should be used to document the report?

A) 72126

B) 72128

C) 72129

D) 72130

Tackle Ultrasound and MRI Codes in This Scenario

Question 3: A 22-year-old patient suffered a right knee injury while playing football. The patient experienced trauma around the knee when getting tackled, heard a loud pop, and is feeling severe pain. X-rays were negative for a bone fracture. The radiologist then performed an ultrasound to check for injury to the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage in the knee. The patient is diagnosed with torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL). After the ultrasound, the radiologist performs an MRI without contrast to determine the extent of the ligament injuries.

Which CPT^® code(s) should you use to document the ultrasound and MRI procedures?

A) 73718

B) 76881

C) 73721

        D) 76882

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