AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2005 Issue 3 (Summer)
Computed Tomography of Thorax With Contrast
Computed Tomography of Thorax With Contrast Clinical History Leukemia with splenomegaly, undergoing radiation therapy to the left upper quadrant. Patient presents now with chest pain localizing to the left upper quadrant and shortness of breath. Technique Spiral computed tomography (CT) imaging was performed through the thorax during 71260 A4646 or Q9950 uneventful intravenous administration of 100 cc of Isovue® 370. The bolus and imaging were optimized for detection of pulmonary embolism. Reference is made to prior studies on 4/6/05 (abdominal CT) and the present day (chest film). Comments Marked splenomegaly is again identified. There is now a very large...
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Article Overview
This article explains how a thoracic CT exam performed with contrast is presented in a radiology coding example and places it in the broader context of chest CTA versus non-CTA imaging. It also addresses related HCPCS Level II contrast supply reporting, the role of image post-processing, and general billing considerations referenced to CMS and ACR source material. The content is intended for coding professionals, radiology staff, and others reviewing imaging documentation and contrast-related claim reporting.
Why This Topic Matters
Chest CT documentation can overlap with CTA terminology, and the article helps readers understand the coding scope of the exam, associated contrast supply reporting, and how related guidance may affect claim submission and review.
Article Sections
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Clinical History
Summarizes the patient context and the reason the imaging study was obtained.
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Technique
Describes the imaging approach, administration of contrast, and comparison to prior studies.
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Comments
Presents the interpreted findings from the examination and the reported overall impression.
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How to Code
Introduces the coding discussion associated with the case example and the related imaging and contrast supply concepts.
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Discussion
Reviews broader coding guidance for thoracic CT, CTA, contrast reporting, and related billing considerations.
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Coding Tips
Provides general coding guidance about CTA documentation, related exam components, and separate reporting considerations.
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Endnotes
Lists source references supporting the article content.
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Reference
Identifies an additional citation related to the topic.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames thoracic CT with contrast within a radiology coding example
- What general topics distinguish chest CT from CTA in the article
- How contrast supply reporting is discussed at a high level
- Which organizations and source publications are referenced in the guidance
- What broader billing and documentation issues are covered for imaging studies
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Radiology billing staff
- Compliance professionals
- Radiology practice administrators
- Physicians and advanced practitioners documenting imaging studies
Codes Discussed
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