How To Use CPT Code 0612T

CPT 0612T describes the interpretation and report of biomarker data from magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for the determination and localization of discogenic pain in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0612T?

CPT 0612T can be used to report the interpretation and report of biomarker data obtained from magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for the determination and localization of discogenic pain in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions. This code is used when a provider analyzes the acquired data and prepares a report based on the results.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0612T is: ‘Magnetic resonance spectroscopy, determination and localization of discogenic pain (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar); interpretation and report.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient undergoes an MRI scan to obtain single-voxel acquisition data on structural and biochemical markers of at least three discs in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions.
2. The acquired data for each disc is transmitted to a computer for processing using a computer algorithm.
3. A provider interprets the processed data, which includes degenerative pain-related and structural biomarkers, such as lactic acid, carbohydrate, alanine, laal, propionic acid, proteoglycan, and collagen.
4. The provider prepares a report based on the results, which may include a graphic representation of the biomarker data.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0612T is used for the determination and localization of discogenic pain in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions. It should not be reported in conjunction with codes 72141, 72142, 72146, 72147, 72148, 72149, 72156, 72157, 72158, 72159, or 76390. The procedure involves the analysis of biomarker data obtained from MRS scans, specifically focusing on the intervertebral discs in the spine.

5. When to use CPT code 0612T

CPT code 0612T should be used when a provider interprets and prepares a report based on the biomarker data obtained from MRS scans for the determination and localization of discogenic pain in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions. It is important to ensure that this code is not reported in conjunction with specific imaging codes listed in the qualifying circumstances section.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0612T, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the MRS scan and the need for the determination and localization of discogenic pain
• Specific discs analyzed and their corresponding regions (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar)
• Date of the MRS scan and the start and end time of the interpretation and report
• Results of the analysis, including the biomarkers assessed and any abnormalities identified
• Preparation of a report summarizing the findings
• Provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0612T, ensure that the interpretation and report of biomarker data from MRS scans for the determination and localization of discogenic pain are performed. It should not be reported in conjunction with specific imaging codes. Seek guidance from the payer regarding coverage and reimbursement for this procedure. It is important to code and report this procedure for tracking purposes, even if it is not payable.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0612T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2020. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider interprets and prepares a report based on the biomarker data obtained from an MRS scan for the determination and localization of discogenic pain in the cervical region.
2. A patient undergoes an MRS scan of the thoracic region, and a provider analyzes the acquired data to determine and localize discogenic pain, preparing a report based on the results.
3. A provider interprets the biomarker data obtained from an MRS scan of the lumbar region and prepares a report for the determination and localization of discogenic pain.
4. A patient undergoes an MRS scan of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions, and a provider analyzes the acquired data to determine and localize discogenic pain, preparing a comprehensive report based on the results.
5. A provider interprets the biomarker data obtained from an MRS scan of the thoracic region and prepares a report for the determination and localization of discogenic pain.
6. A patient undergoes an MRS scan of the cervical region, and a provider analyzes the acquired data to determine and localize discogenic pain, preparing a report based on the results.
7. A provider interprets and prepares a report based on the biomarker data obtained from an MRS scan for the determination and localization of discogenic pain in the lumbar region.
8. A patient undergoes an MRS scan of the thoracic region, and a provider analyzes the acquired data to determine and localize discogenic pain, preparing a report based on the results.
9. A provider interprets the biomarker data obtained from an MRS scan of the cervical region and prepares a report for the determination and localization of discogenic pain.
10. A patient undergoes an MRS scan of the lumbar region, and a provider analyzes the acquired data to determine and localize discogenic pain, preparing a report based on the results.