Hi,
How should I bill for a CT scan of the head prior to Gamma Knife radiosurgery? The report below is an example. Should I append modifier 52 to CPT 70450 since the radiologist document that it is a limited study due to the gamma knife frame?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clinical History
Pituitary adenoma
Technique
Helical acquired axial images were obtained through the patient's head to the purpose of gamma knife planning. Gamma knife frame in place.
Findings
Comparison: MRI the brain gamma knife planning performed same day.
Basal cisterns, ventricular system and convexity sulci: Negative.
Brain parenchyma: Limited assessment due to artifact from gamma knife frame. No gross abnormalities detected.
Extra-axial space: Negative.
Vessels: Calcifications are noted along the bilateral internal carotid arteries.
Skull base and bony calvaria: Cerebrospinal fluid density noted within the sellar region consistent with findings suggestive of empty sella on MRI performed same day.
Other comments: None.
Impression
1. Limited study for purpose of gamma knife planning.
2. Atherosclerotic changes involving the bilateral intracranial internal carotid arteries.
How should I bill for a CT scan of the head prior to Gamma Knife radiosurgery? The report below is an example. Should I append modifier 52 to CPT 70450 since the radiologist document that it is a limited study due to the gamma knife frame?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clinical History
Pituitary adenoma
Technique
Helical acquired axial images were obtained through the patient's head to the purpose of gamma knife planning. Gamma knife frame in place.
Findings
Comparison: MRI the brain gamma knife planning performed same day.
Basal cisterns, ventricular system and convexity sulci: Negative.
Brain parenchyma: Limited assessment due to artifact from gamma knife frame. No gross abnormalities detected.
Extra-axial space: Negative.
Vessels: Calcifications are noted along the bilateral internal carotid arteries.
Skull base and bony calvaria: Cerebrospinal fluid density noted within the sellar region consistent with findings suggestive of empty sella on MRI performed same day.
Other comments: None.
Impression
1. Limited study for purpose of gamma knife planning.
2. Atherosclerotic changes involving the bilateral intracranial internal carotid arteries.