AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2007 Issue 2 (Spring)
Radiology Test Case Answer
Radiology Test Case Answer (See page 3 for test case) How to Code 74150 Computed tomography, abdomen; without contrast material 72192 Computed tomography, pelvis; without contrast material Discussion The report describes an unenhanced (noncontrast) computed tomography that extends from the diaphragm down to the pubic synthesis; therefore, codes 74150 and 72192 are the appropriate codes to report. The use of the term CT urography in the report is misleading. CT codes were developed to be anatomic-site specific; therefore, physicians are urged to use the proper nomenclature in their reports when describing the procedures performed. Because CT studies are previewed...
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Article Overview
This premium article reviews a radiology test case and discusses how CT abdomen and CT pelvis studies are identified in a report, along with broader guidance on CT nomenclature, limited versus complete studies, and documentation of additional processing or contrast-related reporting. It is useful for radiology coders, billing staff, and clinicians who prepare imaging reports, especially those working with CT protocols and related coding references.
Why This Topic Matters
Accurate radiology coding depends on matching the documented anatomic coverage and procedure type to the appropriate code set. This article helps readers understand the scope of a CT report and the documentation issues that can affect code selection and claim reporting.
Article Sections
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How to Code
Introduces the test case and the code reporting approach discussed in the article. The section centers on radiology coding for CT imaging.
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Discussion
Explains the imaging scope described in the report and discusses broader CT nomenclature and protocol considerations. It also addresses how anatomy-specific CT reporting may vary by practice.
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Coding Tip
Provides general billing guidance for CT studies that extend across body regions and notes documentation expectations for additional services. It also mentions that certain image reformatting is not routinely coded.
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Endnote
Cites a supporting reference related to communication with the referring physician.
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Errata
Notes a correction to a previously published Q-code reference in a newsletter issue. The section identifies the code set involved without offering substantive coding guidance.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a CT abdomen and pelvis test case
- How radiology report wording affects coding relevance
- General considerations for limited and complete CT study reporting
- Why documentation matters for additional imaging processing
- A published correction related to a contrast media HCPCS code
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Medical billing staff
- Radiology practices
- Coding educators
- Clinicians preparing imaging reports
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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