AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2018 Issue 2 (Spring)
Modified Barium Swallow Study
RADIOLOGY TEST CASE ANSWER Modified Barium Swallow Study HOW TO CODE 74230 Swallowing function, with cineradiography/videoradiography G9501 Radiation exposure indices, or exposure time and number of fluorographic images not documented in final report for procedure using fluoroscopy, reason not given R13.10 Dysphagia, unspecified DISCUSSION The modified barium swallow study is a procedure for evaluating the oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing. Although it is used primarily for evaluation of function, structural abnormalities may also be identified as a primary cause of swallowing dysfunction. Modified barium swallow studies may be performed due to known or suspected swallowing dysfunction or...
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Article Overview
This article explains the coding and documentation context for a modified barium swallow study. It is relevant to radiologists, speech-language pathologists, and billing/coding professionals who need to understand how the procedure is discussed in relation to imaging interpretation, diagnosis reporting, and Medicare quality measures.
Why This Topic Matters
Proper reporting for this study depends on the service context, the documentation available in the final report, and whether Medicare quality-reporting requirements apply. The article helps readers identify the general coding and documentation areas that matter for reimbursement and compliance.
Article Sections
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How to Code
Introduces the primary coding topics tied to the modified barium swallow study and the related documentation context. The section frames the article’s scope for radiology and speech-language pathology reporting.
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Discussion
Covers the procedure’s clinical purpose, documentation considerations, reporting context for different professionals, and Medicare quality-reporting issues. The discussion also references supporting guidance from professional and federal sources.
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Sources
Lists the professional and government references used to support the coding discussion. These citations show the article’s reference base and publication context.
What You Will Learn
- How the modified barium swallow study is discussed in relation to radiology and speech-language pathology reporting
- What kinds of documentation context are emphasized for the study
- How diagnosis and quality-reporting topics are connected to the procedure
- Which professional and government sources are cited in support of the guidance
Who Should Read This
- Radiologists
- Speech-language pathologists
- Medical coders
- Medical billers
- Revenue cycle staff
- Compliance professionals
Codes Discussed
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