How To Use CPT Code 70015

CPT code 70015 describes the procedure of cisternography, which involves the use of positive contrast to examine the basal cistern of the brain. This article will provide an overview of CPT 70015, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and similar codes.

1. What is CPT Code 70015?

CPT 70015 is a code used to describe the procedure of cisternography, specifically the radiological supervision and interpretation of imaging performed on the basal cistern of the brain. This procedure is utilized to diagnose issues related to the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70015 is: ‘Cisternography, positive contrast, radiological supervision and interpretation.’

3. Procedure

1. During cisternography, a healthcare provider performs imaging supervision and interpretation of an imaging procedure on the basal cistern of the brain.
2. The provider administers positive contrast material, typically in the form of radioisotopes, into the subarachnoid space through a lumbar puncture.
3. Using radiographic techniques, the provider then examines the basal cisterns to determine abnormal CSF flow or leaks.
4. The entire procedure is supervised by the provider, who also interprets the findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70015 is applicable when a healthcare provider performs cisternography to assess abnormal CSF flow or leaks in the basal cistern of the brain. The procedure involves the use of positive contrast material, which is injected into the subarachnoid space. The provider must supervise the entire radiological procedure and interpret the findings.

5. When to use CPT code 70015

CPT code 70015 should be used when a healthcare provider performs cisternography with positive contrast to evaluate abnormal CSF flow or leaks in the basal cistern of the brain. 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 70015, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for cisternography and the need to assess abnormal CSF flow or leaks
• Details of the procedure, including the use of positive contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Interpretation of the findings
• Signature of the provider who performed the imaging supervision and interpretation

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70015, ensure that the provider both supervises and interprets the imaging procedure. It is important to follow the payer’s guidelines regarding the reporting of contrast material separately, if applicable. Additionally, if multiple providers are involved in the service, appropriate modifiers should be appended to the code to indicate reduced service and the professional component.

8. Historical information

CPT 70015 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 radiologist performing cisternography to evaluate abnormal CSF flow in a patient with suspected hydrocephalus.
2. A neurologist supervising and interpreting cisternography to assess CSF leaks in a patient with a history of head trauma.
3. A neuroradiologist conducting cisternography with positive contrast to diagnose a CSF flow obstruction in a patient with suspected intracranial hypertension.
4. A neurosurgeon performing cisternography to evaluate CSF leaks following a surgical procedure on the basal cistern of the brain.
5. A nuclear medicine physician interpreting cisternography results to determine the presence of abnormal CSF flow in a patient with suspected meningitis.
6. A radiologist supervising and interpreting cisternography to assess CSF leaks in a patient with a history of recurrent meningitis.
7. A neurologist performing cisternography to evaluate abnormal CSF flow in a patient with suspected Chiari malformation.
8. A neurosurgeon interpreting cisternography results to assess the effectiveness of a shunt in a patient with hydrocephalus.
9. A neuroradiologist conducting cisternography with positive contrast to diagnose a CSF leak in a patient with persistent headaches.
10. A nuclear medicine physician supervising and interpreting cisternography to evaluate abnormal CSF flow in a patient with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus.