AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2016 Issue 1 (Winter)
Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Placement of Localization Devices into Lymph Nodes in the Left Axilla
CLINICAL EXAMPLE 2 Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Placement of Localization Devices into Lymph Nodes in the Left Axilla CLINICAL HISTORY A 68-year-old female presents with previously biopsied left axillary lymph node metastases secondary to invasive ductal carcinoma of the left breast. She is referred for placement of marker clips in two biopsy proven metastatic left axillary lymph nodes prior to initiation of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. TECHNIQUE The procedure was discussed with the patient, informed consent was obtained, and the patient agreed to proceed. Preprocedure ultrasound demonstrates abnormal, previously biopsied lymph nodes in the left axilla measuring 2.3 cm laterally and 3...
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Article Overview
This premium article explains a radiology coding example involving ultrasound-guided placement of localization devices in left axillary lymph nodes. It is intended for coders and billing professionals who work with interventional radiology, breast cancer-related procedures, and CPT guidance. The article also covers related CPT updates, code bundling context, and practical coding notes for marker placement in soft tissue lesions.
Why This Topic Matters
Accurate reporting of localization device placement affects correct CPT selection and proper handling of imaging guidance and add-on reporting. This matters for coders, compliance teams, and practices managing pre-treatment lesion marking and subsequent surgical planning.
Article Sections
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Clinical Example 2
A radiology case example describing a procedure performed in the left axilla and the clinical context for localization device placement.
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How to Code
The coding section presents the applicable CPT reporting framework for the procedure described in the example.
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Discussion
Background discussion on soft-tissue localization device placement, typical imaging support, and related CPT update context.
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Coding Tips
Practical guidance on reporting frequency, multiple lesions, laterality considerations, and when more specific site-based coding may apply.
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Sources
Reference materials cited by the article from the American Medical Association and related coding publications.
What You Will Learn
- The clinical context for ultrasound-guided localization device placement in the axilla
- How the article frames CPT reporting for the procedure example
- How the article discusses imaging guidance in relation to the procedure
- General considerations for reporting multiple lesions and site-specific alternatives
- The type of coding updates and professional references used in the article
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Radiology coding specialists
- Billing and reimbursement staff
- Compliance professionals
- Physician documentation staff
Codes Discussed
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