How To Use CPT Code 0648T

CPT 0648T describes the quantitative magnetic resonance analysis of tissue composition, including the acquisition, preparation, and transmission of multiparametric data, as well as interpretation and reporting. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0648T?

CPT 0648T can be used to describe the quantitative magnetic resonance analysis of tissue composition. This code represents the acquisition, preparation, and transmission of multiparametric data, as well as the interpretation and reporting of the results. It is important to note that this code should not be reported when a diagnostic MRI of the same anatomy is performed during the same session.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0648T is: ‘Quantitative magnetic resonance for analysis of tissue composition (eg, fat, iron, water content), including multiparametric data acquisition, data preparation and transmission, interpretation and report, obtained without diagnostic MRI examination of the same anatomy (eg, organ, gland, tissue, target structure) during the same session; single organ.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and positioning the patient in the MRI machine.
2. Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, the provider acquires images and data to analyze the tissue composition.
3. The acquired data is then processed and prepared for analysis.
4. The provider transmits the prepared data for interpretation.
5. Based on the analysis, the provider generates a report detailing the findings of the quantitative magnetic resonance analysis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0648T is used when there is a need to analyze the tissue composition quantitatively using magnetic resonance imaging. This code is appropriate for the analysis of a single organ. It should not be reported when a diagnostic MRI of the same anatomy is performed during the same session.

5. When to use CPT code 0648T

CPT code 0648T should be used when there is a specific need to quantitatively analyze the tissue composition using magnetic resonance imaging. It is important to ensure that there is no diagnostic MRI of the same anatomy performed during the same session. If a diagnostic MRI of the same anatomy is performed, an additional code, such as 0649T, should be used in conjunction with CPT code 0648T.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0648T, the provider must document the following information:

• The specific organ being analyzed
• The acquisition, preparation, and transmission of multiparametric data
• The date and duration of the session
• The interpretation and findings of the quantitative magnetic resonance analysis
• A detailed report of the results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0648T, it is important to ensure that the service provided meets the criteria outlined in the official description. Additionally, this code should not be reported when a diagnostic MRI of the same anatomy is performed during the same session. If there is a need to report both the quantitative magnetic resonance analysis and a diagnostic MRI, additional codes should be used in conjunction with CPT code 0648T.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0648T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2021. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a quantitative magnetic resonance analysis of the liver to assess the fat content in a patient with suspected non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
2. A provider utilizes CPT code 0648T to analyze the water content in the brain of a patient with suspected hydrocephalus.
3. A provider uses quantitative magnetic resonance to assess the iron content in the heart of a patient with suspected iron overload.
4. A provider performs a quantitative analysis of the fat content in the muscle tissue of a patient with suspected muscular dystrophy.
5. A provider utilizes CPT code 0648T to analyze the water content in the kidneys of a patient with suspected renal dysfunction.
6. A provider performs a quantitative magnetic resonance analysis of the fat content in the pancreas of a patient with suspected pancreatic steatosis.
7. A provider uses CPT code 0648T to analyze the iron content in the spleen of a patient with suspected iron deficiency anemia.
8. A provider performs a quantitative analysis of the water content in the lungs of a patient with suspected pulmonary edema.
9. A provider utilizes CPT code 0648T to analyze the fat content in the bone marrow of a patient with suspected bone marrow disorders.
10. A provider uses quantitative magnetic resonance to assess the water content in the bladder of a patient with suspected urinary tract infection.