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Radiology Coding Alert

READER QUESTION:

Consider Real-Time the More Accurate Term

Published on Sun Jan 28, 2007

Question: What does the term "real-time" mean in imaging?


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Answer: "Real-time" refers to 2D B-mode scans taken in rapid sequence (more than 16 frames per second).

Because the images are obtained in rapid sequence, you feel as if you're seeing the object of study in real time.

Tip: "Real-time" is more accurate than "B-scan" when it comes to describing how this imaging is done in most radiological applications, according to CPT Changes 2007 in its description of why "real-time" replaces "B-scan" in certain 2007 radiology code descriptors. The answers for You Be the Coder and Reader Questions were reviewed by Jackie Miller, RHIA, CPC, senior consultant with Coding Strategies Inc. in Powder Springs, Ga.
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