AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2019 Issue 2 (Spring)
Anatomic Modeling Three-Dimensional (3D) Printing
CLINICAL EXAMPLE 2 Anatomic Modeling Three-Dimensional (3D) Printing CLINICAL DATA A 53-year-old female with a mandibular tumor presented for resection of the tumor and mandibular reconstruction. The ear–nose–throat (ENT) surgeon requested a craniofacial model and two cutting guides, specifically, a mandibular cutting guide and a fibular cutting guide, for the planned fibular free flap. PROCEDURE During an initial consultation, the ordering ENT surgeon explained that the model needed three specific anatomic components: craniofacial bones, arteries, and the tumor. The guides would be osteotomy guides for the mandible and the fibula for a free flap reconstruction. Computed tomography (CT) imaging...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article covers a clinical example and coding discussion centered on 3D-printed anatomic modeling and anatomic guides in a surgical planning context. It is aimed at coders, radiology and surgical staff, and other professionals who work with image-based modeling services and CPT Category III reporting. The article also addresses related imaging workflow concepts, documentation, and how these services fit within the broader Category III code set framework.
Why This Topic Matters
Understanding this material helps readers identify when an imaging-based 3D modeling service falls within the article’s topic scope and how the associated reporting discussion is organized. It is especially relevant for teams supporting radiology, ENT, and reconstructive surgery workflows that involve additive manufacturing and virtual planning.
Article Sections
-
Clinical Example 2
A surgical planning scenario involving image-based 3D modeling and guide creation is presented. The example focuses on the overall workflow from imaging data through printed output and review.
-
Discussion
This section explains the broader CPT Category III context for 3D anatomic modeling and guide services. It also discusses related imaging workflow concepts, documentation, and the relationship to other imaging renderings.
What You Will Learn
- The general workflow used to create 3D-printed anatomic models and guides from imaging data
- How the article frames these services within CPT Category III reporting
- What types of documentation and processing steps are discussed for image-based modeling services
- How the topic relates to surgical planning and multidisciplinary care settings
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Radiology professionals
- ENT and surgical teams
- Health information management staff
- Revenue cycle and reimbursement professionals
- Healthcare policy and research professionals
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.


Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com