AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2015 Issue 3 (Summer)
Radiology Test Case Answer
RADIOLOGY TEST CASE ANSWER Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry and Vertebral Fracture Assessment HOW TO CODE 77085 Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bone density study, 1 or more sites; axial skeleton (eg, hips, pelvis, spine), including vertebral fracture assessment DISCUSSION The American Medical Association/Specialty Society Relative Value Scale (RVS) Update Committee (RUC) Five-Year Review Identification Workgroup identified Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) codes 77080 , Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bone density study, 1 or more sites; axial skeleton (eg, hips, pelvis, spine) , and 77082 , Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bone density study, 1 or more sites; vertebral fracture assessment , as being reported simultaneously 75...
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Article Overview
This premium article reviews a radiology coding example involving DXA and vertebral fracture assessment, with discussion of how the topic was addressed in CPT updates and related professional guidance. It is aimed at coders, radiology staff, and reimbursement professionals who need to understand the scope of the service, the relevant coding changes, and the clinical context for these imaging studies.
Why This Topic Matters
The topic affects how radiology services are reported and interpreted in a coding workflow, especially when coding changes and bundled reporting concepts are involved. It also helps readers distinguish between related imaging services and understand why professional guidance matters for accurate reporting.
Article Sections
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How to Code
Introduces the coding focus of the article and the radiology service at issue. This section frames the specific reporting topic addressed in the discussion that follows.
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Discussion
Provides background on the CPT update, related professional review activity, and the broader clinical context for the imaging services discussed. It also explains the general purpose and use of the studies in patient care.
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Sources
Lists reference materials and professional publications cited by the article. These sources support the background discussion and coding context.
What You Will Learn
- The radiology service area covered by the article
- How the topic relates to CPT update activity
- The general clinical context for bone density and vertebral fracture imaging
- Why professional guidance is relevant to reporting these studies
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Radiology billing staff
- Compliance professionals
- Reimbursement specialists
- Radiology department staff
Codes Discussed
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