AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2020 Issue 1 (Winter)
Questions and Answers
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Question Answer In some instances, abbreviated breast magnetic resonance imaging (AB-MRI) is performed for cancer screening in women with dense breast tissue. There are some differences, however, between the regular breast MRI and the AB-MRI. The AB-MRI requires contrast; however, less time and fewer sequences are performed than with other breast MRI protocols. How should an AB-MRI be reported? Would Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) code 77049 with modifier 52 appended be the correct way to report this study? The breast MRI service described is appropriately reported with one of the two "with contrast" breast MRI...
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Article Overview
This Q&A article explains how several imaging and procedure scenarios are discussed in CPT®-based coding guidance. It focuses on breast MRI reporting, ultrasound and other guidance for lumbar puncture and pericardiocentesis, and obstetrical ultrasound coding distinctions discussed in Clinical Examples in Radiology and related CPT materials. The article is useful for coders, radiology practices, and billing staff who need a high-level understanding of when these topics are addressed and which code sets are involved.
Why This Topic Matters
These questions arise in everyday radiology and procedural coding, where accurate reporting depends on the documented service and the applicable CPT® guidance. Knowing the scope of the article helps readers quickly determine whether it covers the imaging and obstetric coding scenario they need to research further.
Article Sections
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Breast MRI reporting question
Discusses a screening/diagnostic breast MRI reporting scenario and references CPT® guidance for breast imaging. The section frames the topic around abbreviated MRI protocols and reporting considerations.
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Ultrasound-guided diagnostic lumbar puncture
Covers a question about reporting lumbar puncture procedures when ultrasound guidance is used. The section also notes related guidance for CT and fluoroscopic guidance.
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Subsequent ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis
Addresses pericardiocentesis reporting in the context of deleted codes and updated CPT® coding guidance. The section discusses imaging guidance and the effect of later code changes.
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Early obstetrical ultrasound reporting
Explains an obstetrical ultrasound coding question involving early pregnancy imaging and follow-up examinations. The section references CPT® obstetrical ultrasound guidance and related documentation concepts.
What You Will Learn
- Which broad CPT® imaging topics are covered in this Q&A article
- How the article frames breast MRI reporting questions
- What kinds of guidance are discussed for lumbar puncture and pericardiocentesis
- How the article addresses early obstetrical ultrasound reporting scenarios
- Which professional resources and years are referenced in the discussion
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Medical billing staff
- Physician documentation staff
- Radiology practices
- Obstetric imaging coders
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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