AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2015 Issue 1 (Winter)
Questions and Answers
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Question Answer Please describe the differences between codes 93975 and 93979 . Are the elements of code 93979 included in code 93975 by virtue of code descriptor or anatomy? Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) code 93975 describes duplex evaluation of arterial supply and venous drainage of an organ or organs in the abdomen, retroperitoneum, or pelvis. This code is used if the organs are evaluated in their entirety, including inflow and outflow vessels. Code 93979 describes a limited duplex evaluation of the aorta, inferior vena cava (IVC), iliac vessels, or grafts involving these vessels. National Correct Coding...
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Article Overview
This short Q&A article explains how to think about selected radiology coding scenarios in CPT. It covers duplex vascular ultrasound and knee X-ray view reporting, and it notes when NCCI edit information affects whether multiple studies can be reported together. The piece is useful for radiology coders, billers, and compliance staff who need to compare study scope, imaging views, and documentation context.
Why This Topic Matters
Radiology coding often depends on the exact scope of the study and the ordered views, so small differences can change reporting choices. The article helps readers recognize where CPT and NCCI guidance intersect in common diagnostic imaging scenarios.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a comparison between two CPT vascular ultrasound studies.
- How knee X-ray reporting can vary based on the number of views and whether comparison imaging is ordered.
- How NCCI edit information can affect whether multiple studies are reported on the same date of service.
- The importance of the referring physician’s order in selecting the appropriate radiology code set context.
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Radiology billers
- Compliance staff
- Revenue cycle professionals
- Physician office staff
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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