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Radiology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Conquer 'Cone-Down View'

Published on Sun May 09, 2010

Question: What is the appropriate code for a lumbosacral spine X-ray with AP, lateral, and cone-down views? What are cone-down views? Indiana SubscriberAnswer: The correct code for this case is 72100 (Radiologic examination, spine, lumbosacral; 2 or 3 views).Cone-down: For the case you describe, cone-down views are typically an additional lateral view of the spine, but they focus more on a specific part than the normal lateral view. In a typical non-cone-down image, the pelvis bones are superimposed over the spine. Cone-down views result in clearer pictures and allow the radiologist to better visualize the lower lumbar/sacral spine and the joint space. You may see this view called the "L5/S1 spot."Other views: This exam also included the AP view, which means anteroposterior. The tech takes this view from front to back through the body. The tech takes the lateral view from the patient's side.
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