AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2006 Issue 4 (Fall)
Radiology FAQ
Radiology FAQ If you have a question you would like to see addressed in the newsletter, please e-mail clinex@acr.org. The editorial staff will pick the most frequently asked questions for publication. Question: Answer: How should magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the fetal brain to evaluate intracranial abnormalities be reported when using single shot, fast-spin echo images obtained in three orthogonal planes through the fetal head? A fetal brain MRI is reported by CPT code 72195 , Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, pelvis; without contrast material(s); 72196 , Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, pelvis; (with contrast material(s); or 72197 , Magnetic resonance...
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Article Overview
This article compiles frequently asked radiology coding questions from the American College of Radiology and addresses several common imaging scenarios across MRI, ultrasound, and CT. It is useful for radiology coders, billing staff, and clinical documentation teams who need a high-level understanding of how the article organizes guidance by anatomic area, study type, and coding reference. The content also points to ACR and CPT source materials cited within the FAQ.
Why This Topic Matters
Radiology coding often depends on the specific exam performed, the body area imaged, and the documentation available. This FAQ helps readers see which common radiology situations are discussed so they can determine whether the full article is relevant to their coding or compliance work.
Article Sections
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MRI of the fetal brain
Discusses a fetal brain MRI scenario in the context of pelvic imaging and references an ACR practice guideline. The section frames how the FAQ presents this type of study for coding reference.
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Soft tissue ultrasound for a palpable mass
Covers ultrasound coding by anatomic region for soft tissue abnormalities and includes a table of body areas. The section also notes a modifier reference and cites an ACR ultrasound coding guide.
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Breast ultrasound and Doppler-related documentation
Addresses breast ultrasound reporting in relation to documentation language and mentions CPT guideline concepts tied to Doppler and noninvasive physiologic studies. The section includes references to supporting coding publications and a radiology coding source item.
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CT follow-up of a wrist fracture
Discusses CT follow-up imaging in the setting of a wrist fracture and references a limited follow-up CT code. The section also provides contextual examples of follow-up CT use.
What You Will Learn
- How the FAQ organizes radiology coding questions by exam type and body region.
- Which broad imaging scenarios are addressed in the article.
- What types of ACR and CPT references are cited in the FAQ.
- How the article presents common documentation-oriented questions for radiology coding review.
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Medical billing staff
- Compliance teams
- Radiology practice managers
- Clinical documentation staff
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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