AMA CPT® Assistant - 2011 Issue 11 (November)
Coding Brief: Computed Tomography of Abdomen and Pelvis (Codes 74176-74178) (November 2011)
November 2011 pages 6-7 Coding Brief: Computed Tomography of Abdomen and Pelvis (Codes 74176-74178) Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic imaging technique in which multiple projections of X-rays, passed through the body from several angles, are collected and analyzed by a computer to produce cross-sectional images of the body, yielding more details than the images obtained through standard X ray. Prior to 2011, CT imaging studies performed on the abdomen and pelvis were reported with separate codes (74150, 74160, 74170, 72192-72194). In execution of its responsibility to identify potentially misvalued services, including those that might appropriately be reported together...
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Article Overview
This premium coding brief covers the CPT updates for combined computed tomography studies of the abdomen and pelvis, including the broader context for why the combined codes were added and how they relate to earlier stand-alone abdomen and pelvis CT reporting. It is aimed at coders, billers, radiology practices, and reimbursement staff who need to understand the scope of the guidance, the code set changes, and the payer-edit context discussed in the article.
Why This Topic Matters
The article helps readers determine whether they need guidance on abdominal and pelvic CT reporting, especially when comparing combined studies with stand-alone imaging codes and considering payer edits. It is relevant to accurate radiology coding workflow and understanding how the 2011 CPT changes were presented in a coding-education format.
Article Sections
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November 2011 pages 6-7
Publication information and the source location for the coding brief.
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Coding Brief: Computed Tomography of Abdomen and Pelvis (Codes 74176-74178)
An overview of computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis and the background for the combined CPT codes discussed in the article.
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Following are the new codes
A presentation of the newly introduced CPT code family for combined abdominal and pelvic CT studies, along with illustrative patient scenarios.
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Note
Clarifying information about contrast terminology and related reporting considerations for these CT studies.
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Coding Tip
Additional guidance on standalone abdomen and pelvis CT reporting, same-session versus separate-session considerations, and modifier and payer-edit context.
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CPT Coding Combinations for CT of the Pelvis and Abdomen
A summary table showing how abdomen and pelvis CT studies are paired in different combined and standalone scenarios.
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References
Source references cited by the article.
What You Will Learn
- The general purpose of the combined CT abdomen and pelvis coding brief
- How the article situates the 2011 CPT changes in relation to earlier CT reporting
- What types of guidance are discussed for combined and standalone abdominal and pelvic CT studies
- Which broader payer-edit and modifier topics are addressed in the article
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Medical billers
- Revenue cycle staff
- Physician coding staff
- Compliance staff
- Radiology practice managers
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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