Radiology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

51102 Trumps 51100 in This Case

Question: The doctor performed an ultrasound-guided catheter placement via suprapubic approach into urinary bladder. What are the codes for this procedure? I'm thinking 51100 and 76942. Is that correct?Illinois SubscriberAnswer: The first code you should report for this procedure is 51102 (Aspiration of bladder; with insertion of suprapubic catheter). This code is more appropriate and specific than simply 51100 (Aspiration of bladder; by needle) because your physician placed the catheter via suprapubic approach. Then, report the ultrasound code that you suggested: 76942 (Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement [e.g., biopsy, aspiration, injection, localization device], imaging supervision and interpretation).
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