How To Use CPT Code 70010

CPT 70010 describes the radiological supervision and interpretation of a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 70010?

CPT 70010 can be used to describe the radiological supervision and interpretation of a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa. This code is used when a provider performs a diagnostic study of the posterior cranial fossa using fluoroscopy imaging and contrast material to assess for any intracranial pathology.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70010 is: ‘Myelography, posterior fossa, radiological supervision and interpretation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs imaging supervision and interpretation of a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa.
2. Fluoroscopy imaging is used to assess for any intracranial pathology.
3. A lumbar puncture is performed, and contrast material is injected into the subarachnoid space to enhance image sequences.
4. The provider supervises the entire radiological procedure and interprets the findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70010 is used when a provider performs radiographic diagnostic study of the posterior cranial fossa using fluoroscopy imaging and contrast material. This procedure is typically performed to assess for intracranial pathology, such as a brain tumor, in patients experiencing symptoms like balance problems and difficulty walking straight.

5. When to use CPT code 70010

CPT code 70010 should be used when a provider performs the radiological supervision and interpretation of a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa. It is important to note that this code represents both the technical and professional components of the service.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70010, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the myelography procedure and the need for imaging of the posterior cranial fossa
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of fluoroscopy imaging and contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Interpretation of the findings
• Signature of the provider performing the radiological supervision and interpretation

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70010, ensure that the provider performs both the radiological supervision and interpretation of the myelography procedure. It is important to follow the specific guidelines of each payer regarding the reporting of contrast material and any separately reportable supply codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 70010 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the radiological supervision and interpretation of a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa in a patient with suspected brain tumor.
2. Using fluoroscopy imaging and contrast material, a provider assesses the posterior cranial fossa in a patient experiencing balance problems and difficulty walking straight.
3. A provider performs a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa and interprets the findings in a patient with suspected intracranial pathology.
4. Using radiographic techniques, a provider performs a myelography procedure to assess the posterior cranial fossa and provides an interpretation of the results.
5. A provider utilizes fluoroscopy imaging and contrast material to perform a myelography procedure and interprets the images to evaluate the posterior cranial fossa.
6. In a patient with symptoms suggestive of intracranial pathology, a provider performs the radiological supervision and interpretation of a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa.
7. Using fluoroscopy imaging and contrast material, a provider assesses the posterior cranial fossa in a patient with suspected brain tumor and provides an interpretation of the findings.
8. A provider performs a myelography procedure to image the posterior cranial fossa and interprets the results in a patient with balance problems and difficulty walking straight.
9. Using radiographic techniques, a provider performs a myelography procedure to assess the posterior cranial fossa and provides an interpretation of the images in a patient with suspected intracranial pathology.
10. A provider utilizes fluoroscopy imaging and contrast material to perform a myelography procedure and interprets the images to evaluate the posterior cranial fossa in a patient with symptoms suggestive of intracranial pathology.