Radiology Coding Alert

Question: We performed a three-view x-ray of the facial bones for a patient who suffered facial injuries in a car accident. Does this usually meet the requirements for medical necessity?


Indiana Subscriber

Answer: You should check with your payer to be positive, but x-rays to assess injuries to the facial bones typically do qualify for reimbursement.

You should report the diagnosis with the ICD-9 code supported by your documentation along with an E code to explain the external cause of the injury, such as E813.0 (Motor vehicle traffic accident involving collision with other vehicle; driver of motor vehicle other than motorcycle).

CPT considers three views of the facial bones to be a "complete" exam. Because you have documentation of three views, you should report 70150 (Radiologic examination, facial bones; complete, minimum of three views). If your documentation reveals fewer than three views, you should report 70140 (... less than three views).