Radiology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Report 73050 Only Once Per Session

Question: I understand that CPT 73050 reads,"with or without weighted distraction." When we perform this joint x-ray both with and without weights, should we bill 73050 twice, and if so, should we attach a modifier? Tennessee Subscriber Answer: You should report 73050 (Radiologic examination; acromioclavicular joints, bilateral, with or without weighted distraction) only once, even if you take the films both with and without weights. Often, radiology technologists take a joint view without weights, followed by a view with weights. This still constitutes the two views required of 73050, so you should not append any modifiers.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more

Other Articles in this issue of

Radiology Coding Alert

View All