AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2005 Issue 1 (Winter)
Computed Tomography (CT) of the Abdomen and Computed Tomography of the Pelvis
Computed Tomography (CT) of the Abdomen and Computed Tomography of the Pelvis The patient is a 71-year-old man with rectal bleeding and recent endoscopy, demonstrating cecum carcinoma. His liver function tests are elevated and hepatic metastatic disease is suspected. Indication Colon cancer with abnormal liver function tests and suspect liver mets. A remote CT scan demonstrated a hypervascular lesion, believed at that time to reflect hemangioma. Procedure 1. Contrast enhanced CT of the abdomen 2. Contrast enhanced CT of the pelvis Technique CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis were performed using a multislice helical scan technique. Localizer scans...
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Article Overview
This radiology coding article uses a combined abdomen-and-pelvis CT example to explain how the study is documented and how the associated procedure and supply reporting are discussed in the source material. It is aimed at coders, radiology staff, and billing professionals who need to understand the scope of the imaging exam, the contrast context, and the distinction between conventional CT and CT colonography. The article also references related CPT, HCPCS Level II, and Category III coding topics and cites guidance from CPT and Medicare materials.
Why This Topic Matters
Combined imaging studies can be documented in ways that affect code selection and related supply reporting. The article helps readers recognize the broader coding framework for CT abdomen/pelvis reports and related contrast-product coding considerations.
Article Sections
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Clinical example and imaging findings
Presents the patient context, indications for imaging, and the general abdomen and pelvis findings from the study. The section frames why the examination was performed and what broad anatomic areas were evaluated.
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How to Code
Summarizes the procedure and supply codes referenced in the example and explains the relationship between the reported imaging exam and contrast supply reporting. The section also notes the role of documentation and the distinction between the abdomen and pelvis components.
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Coding Tip
Provides general documentation and reporting reminders related to contrast use and radiology coding guidance. It also references payer and regulatory context for contrast-related reporting.
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Discussion
Expands on why the exam is coded as separate abdominal and pelvic studies and discusses the difference between conventional CT and CT colonography. The section also addresses broader considerations for contrast reporting and exam intent.
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Distinguishing CT From CT Colonography
Reviews how CT colonography differs from conventional abdomen and pelvis CT in purpose and reporting. It references the broader coding framework used to separate these study types.
What You Will Learn
- How combined abdominal and pelvic CT studies are presented in a coding example
- How documentation of contrast use affects radiology reporting context
- How supply reporting is discussed alongside imaging procedures
- How conventional CT is distinguished from CT colonography in the article
- Which organizations and coding references are cited for guidance
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Radiology billing staff
- Compliance professionals
- Physician office staff
- Hospital outpatient coding staff
Codes Discussed
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