CPT Code 72126 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 72126 describes a medical diagnostic procedure in which the healthcare provider administers a CT scan of the cervical spine using contrast material to obtain detailed images of the area.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 72126 as: “Computed tomography, cervical spine; with contrast material”.
Clinical Information
The procedure described by CPT code 72126 involves the use of computed tomography, commonly referred to as CT. This medical procedure is performed by rotating an Xray tube and Xray detectors around a patient to produce a tomogram, which is essentially a computer generated cross sectional image of the area requiring examination.
Medical providers often use CT scans for diagnosing, managing, and treating various diseases. However, before the patient undergoes the procedure, they must be appropriately positioned and sedated if necessary. Additionally, the provider instructs the patient to remain motionless during the entirety of the procedure.
Once the patient is ready, the provider takes cross sectional images of the specific area requiring examination, which in this case is the cervical spine. These thin slices of the spine are then examined on a computer monitor to help the provider interpret and analyze any potential issues.
As part of the procedure, the provider may administer contrast material to enhance the visibility of the area being examined. This contrast material enables the provider to differentiate between normal and abnormal tissues and structures within the body.
Finally, the provider interprets the diagnostic results from the images obtained through the procedure. By analyzing the images produced by the CT scan, the provider can diagnose conditions such as fractures, herniated discs, and tumors.
It is essential to note that the provider will perform this procedure following the injection of contrast material. This step ensures that the maximum amount of diagnostic information is obtained, allowing for a more accurate and effective diagnosis.
In conclusion, the cpt 72126 procedure, also known as a cervical spine CT scan, is a crucial tool for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing a range of medical conditions related to the cervical spine. The procedure is non-invasive and relatively simple, but it provides valuable and accurate imaging to assist in medical diagnoses and treatments.
