AMA CPT® Assistant - 2019 Issue 1 (January)
Radiology: Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) (Q&A) (January 2019)
January 2019 page 14 Radiology: Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Question: How should a post-myelogram computed tomography (CT) imaging of the thoracolumbar regions (including mid-thoracic through lumbosacral junction levels) be reported? Answer: Report codes 72129 , Computed tomography thoracic spine; with contrast material, and 72132 , Computed tomography, lumbar spine; with contrast material. CT procedures "with contrast" are defined as intravascular, intrathecal, or intraarticular contrast in the CPT code descriptor. Therefore, because contrast is used in myelography, the post-myelogram CT imaging should be reported using code(s) that state "CT with contrast."♦ Radiology: Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging). CPT® Assistant. 2019; January 2019...
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Article Overview
This brief Radiology CPT Assistant Q&A addresses diagnostic imaging reporting for a post-myelogram CT study spanning thoracic and lumbar spine regions. It is relevant to radiology coders, billing staff, and compliance reviewers who handle spine imaging documentation and CPT code selection guidance in the context of contrast-based CT procedures.
Why This Topic Matters
The article helps readers understand how this radiology scenario is discussed in a CPT Assistant Q&A format and why the imaging context and contrast usage matter for code reporting. It is useful for teams reviewing spine CT documentation and diagnostic imaging coding workflow.
Article Sections
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January 2019 page 14
Introductory page reference for the Q&A content in this Radiology diagnostic imaging article.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a post-myelogram CT imaging question in diagnostic radiology
- What general imaging and anatomic subjects the Q&A focuses on
- How CPT Assistant presents guidance for thoracolumbar spine CT reporting in a radiology context
- What types of documentation issues are highlighted for contrast-based CT procedures
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Medical billing staff
- Compliance reviewers
- Physician practice managers
- Diagnostic imaging documentation specialists
Codes Discussed
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