How To Use CPT Code 42550

CPT 42550 describes a procedure used to visualize the salivary gland ductal system through imaging. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 42550?

CPT 42550 is a code used to describe a procedure that allows for the visualization of the salivary gland ductal system through imaging. This procedure involves the introduction of a cannula into the ductal passage, followed by the instillation of a contrast material through the cannula. The flow of the contrast material through the salivary gland and duct enables a diagnostic examination of the ductal system to rule out any underlying ductal pathology.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 42550 is a procedure that involves the introduction of a cannula into the salivary gland ductal passage, followed by the instillation of a contrast material to facilitate diagnostic examination of the ductal system. It is important to note that for radiological supervision and interpretation, a separate code, 70390, should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The physician begins by introducing a cannula into the salivary gland ductal passage.
2. A contrast material is then instilled through the cannula into the ductal system.
3. The flow of the contrast material through the salivary gland and duct allows for a diagnostic examination of the ductal system.
4. Additional radiographic monitoring or devices may be used to aid in the examination and rule out any underlying ductal pathology.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 42550 is typically performed when there is a need to visualize the salivary gland ductal system. This procedure is used to rule out any underlying ductal pathology. It is important to note that for radiological supervision and interpretation, a separate code, 70390, should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 42550

CPT code 42550 should be used when there is a need to visualize the salivary gland ductal system and rule out any underlying ductal pathology. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed in accordance with the official description and that the appropriate documentation is provided.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 42550, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the procedure and the need to visualize the salivary gland ductal system
• Details of the procedure performed, including the introduction of the cannula and instillation of the contrast material
• Any additional radiographic monitoring or devices used during the procedure
• Findings from the diagnostic examination of the ductal system
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 42550, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed in accordance with the official description. Additionally, it should be noted that for radiological supervision and interpretation, a separate code, 70390, should be used. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT code 42550 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A physician performing a sialography to visualize the salivary gland ductal system and rule out any underlying ductal pathology.
2. A radiologist introducing a cannula into the salivary gland ductal passage and instilling a contrast material to aid in the diagnostic examination of the ductal system.
3. A dentist using a cannula to facilitate the flow of a contrast material through the salivary gland and duct for a comprehensive examination of the ductal system.
4. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performing a sialography to assess the salivary gland ductal system for any abnormalities or pathology.
5. A head and neck surgeon utilizing a cannula and contrast material to visualize the salivary gland ductal system and guide further treatment decisions.
6. A radiology technician assisting a physician in performing a sialography to obtain detailed images of the salivary gland ductal system.
7. A maxillofacial radiologist interpreting the images obtained from a sialography to identify any abnormalities or pathology in the salivary gland ductal system.
8. A dental hygienist assisting a dentist in performing a sialography to aid in the diagnosis and treatment planning for a patient with suspected salivary gland ductal issues.
9. A medical student observing a sialography procedure to gain a better understanding of the salivary gland ductal system and its diagnostic capabilities.
10. A healthcare administrator reviewing the documentation and billing for a sialography procedure to ensure compliance with coding and billing guidelines.