QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Why This Topic Matters

Radiology coding often depends on distinguishing similar imaging services and understanding when more than one service is being reported. This article helps readers identify the relevant coding references and policy sources used in common outpatient imaging situations.

Article Sections

1. Mammography on the Same Day

   Discusses a same-day screening and diagnostic mammography scenario and references related CPT and HCPCS Level II guidance. It also notes payer considerations and a deleted Medicare-related code set reference.

2. Complete Shoulder Ultrasound

   Explains a question about the scope of a complete ultrasound examination for a shoulder joint. The section references a CPT ultrasound code and general documentation expectations for complete joint imaging.

3. Computer-Aided Detection With Prostate MRI

   Addresses whether computer-aided detection can be separately reported with prostate MRI studies. The section references CPT prostate MRI codes, an unlisted MRI procedure code, and payer processing considerations.

4. Breast Ultrasound and Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy

   Covers a breast imaging scenario involving diagnostic ultrasound and ultrasound-guided biopsy. The section references CPT breast ultrasound and biopsy coding, along with Medicare NCCI and separate-reporting considerations.

5. Brachial Plexus Ultrasound

   Reviews how ultrasound of the brachial plexus is categorized and referenced in the article. It also includes broader guidance on diagnostic ultrasound documentation and anatomic-site-based reporting.