Part B Coding Coach: Master These 7 Radiology Coding Updates

Why This Topic Matters

Radiology coding changes can affect claim accuracy, code selection, and continuity between code years. Understanding the scope of the 2007 updates helps coders, billers, and compliance staff recognize which areas of radiology reporting were revised and where to look for new guidance.

Article Sections

1. 1. Mark Up Your Mammogram Code Lists

   Covers updated breast imaging code areas within CPT 2007, including screening and diagnostic mammography and related imaging services. It emphasizes that new code structure affects how these services are tracked for the new year.

2. 2. Toss Out Your Guidance Code Cheat Sheets

   Reviews changes to imaging guidance codes and the reorganization of guidance methods within the code set. It also references crosswalk information and the broader shift from older code numbers to the new structure.

3. 3. Add Noncoronary to 71275

   Discusses updates affecting chest CT angiography coding and related notes directing users to Category III and thoracic/cardiac CTA code areas. The section focuses on descriptor changes and where to look for related cardiac imaging guidance.

4. 4. Take Time to Read New Guidelines

   Summarizes new radiology guideline additions before the 7xxxx range, with attention to functional MRI and related reporting language. It also addresses general terminology used in testing, results, and reports.

5. 5. Update Your UFE Coding

   Introduces a new code area for uterine fibroid embolization and notes the broader procedure context surrounding it. The section is centered on recognizing the updated code entry and its place in radiology reporting.

6. 6. Be Wary of B-Scans

   Describes descriptor revisions across multiple ultrasound code groups, with attention to terminology changes affecting several anatomic categories. It focuses on the set of ultrasound services impacted by the update.

7. 7. Crack Down on Kidney Imaging Mistakes

   Covers revised nuclear medicine kidney imaging descriptors and related deleted or redirected code areas. It also notes a bladder residual study add-on relationship within the kidney imaging discussion.