AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2009 Issue 3 (Summer)
Radiology FAQ
Radiology FAQ Question: Answer: A Q&A in Clinical Examples in Radiology (Fall 2008, p. 11) states that 3D rendering must be performed in order to assign a CTA code. However, prior guidance from the ACR (eg, July 2001 ACR Bulletin) has indicated that either 2D or 3D rendering is acceptable. The CPT code description specifies "images post processing," but it is not clear if this is referring to 2D or 3D. Please clarify if 2D rendering is still acceptable for CTA. If not, why has this changed? Two dimensional (2D) postprocessing does not constitute a computed tomographic...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article presents a question-and-answer review of radiology coding topics discussed by the ACR and related guidance. It focuses on computed tomographic angiography, postprocessing and reconstruction concepts, archival expectations for imaging studies, breast localization procedures, and how remote radiology interpretations are handled for reporting and reimbursement. The content is relevant to radiologists, radiology coders, compliance staff, and billing personnel who need a general understanding of these coding and documentation areas.
Why This Topic Matters
Radiology coding often depends on how imaging studies are performed, interpreted, archived, and reported across different practice settings. This FAQ helps readers understand the scope of guidance discussed in the article before consulting the full premium text.
Article Sections
-
CT angiography and reconstruction guidance
Discusses radiology coding guidance for CTA reporting, postprocessing concepts, and the evolving distinction between planar and 3D reconstruction approaches. It also references historical context from ACR and CPT materials.
-
Archiving of CTA images
Addresses expectations for retaining images associated with CTA studies and the role of reformatted or representative images in the permanent record.
-
Breast localization with radioactive seeds
Covers a breast localization scenario involving radioactive seed placement and the coding topic associated with that procedure.
-
Tele-radiology services
Summarizes how remote radiology interpretations are discussed in relation to existing radiology CPT reporting and Medicare reimbursement considerations.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames CTA reporting and reconstruction topics
- What the FAQ says about archiving images associated with CTA studies
- How a breast localization scenario is addressed at a high level
- How tele-radiology interpretations are discussed for coding and billing purposes
- Which organizations and code sets are referenced in the guidance
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Radiologists
- Billing staff
- Compliance professionals
- Health information management professionals
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com
