How To Use CPT Code 70134

CPT 70134 describes the radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to diagnose abnormalities in the hearing apparatus. 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 70134?

CPT 70134 can be used to describe the radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati, which are the openings of the ear canal, to diagnose abnormalities in the hearing apparatus. This code is used when the provider takes plain X-rays of the internal auditory canals in multiple projections to assess the condition of the inner ears.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70134 is: ‘Radiologic examination, internal auditory meati, complete.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider takes plain X-rays of the internal auditory meati in multiple projections.
2. The X-rays are used to assess the condition of the hearing apparatus and identify any abnormalities.
3. The provider may take images from different angles to obtain a comprehensive view of the internal auditory meati.
4. The X-ray images are then analyzed and interpreted by the provider to make a diagnosis.
5. The results of the examination are documented in the patient’s medical record for further reference and treatment planning.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70134 is typically used for patients who present with symptoms or conditions related to the hearing apparatus. The examination is performed to diagnose abnormalities in the internal auditory meati, which may include issues with the incus (one of the three tiny bones in the middle ear), the petrous bone (part of the temporal bone that surrounds the organs of hearing), or the tympanic membrane (eardrum). The provider must document the specific indications for the examination and the medical necessity of the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 70134

CPT code 70134 should be used when a provider performs a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to diagnose abnormalities in the hearing apparatus. It is important to ensure that the examination is complete and includes multiple projections to obtain a comprehensive view of the internal auditory canals. This code should not be used for other radiologic examinations of the head and neck that do not specifically focus on the internal auditory meati.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70134, the provider must document the following information:

• Indications for the examination and the medical necessity of the procedure
• Details of the radiologic examination, including the number of views taken and the projections used
• Analysis and interpretation of the X-ray images
• Diagnosis or findings resulting from the examination
• Signature of the provider who performed the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70134, ensure that the examination is complete and includes multiple projections of the internal auditory meati. It is important to accurately document the number of views taken and the projections used to assign the correct code. CPT code 70134 should not be reported with other codes unless there are specific circumstances that warrant additional codes. It is crucial to review the documentation and guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 70134 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 patient presents with hearing loss and tinnitus. The provider performs a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati, taking X-rays from multiple angles to assess the condition of the hearing apparatus.
2. A child with recurrent ear infections undergoes a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to identify any structural abnormalities that may be contributing to the infections.
3. An individual with balance issues and vertigo symptoms undergoes a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to rule out any abnormalities in the inner ears.
4. A patient with a history of head trauma and hearing difficulties undergoes a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to assess the extent of any potential damage to the hearing apparatus.
5. A provider orders a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati for a patient with a suspected congenital hearing abnormality to confirm the diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.
6. A patient with sudden onset hearing loss undergoes a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to identify any underlying causes or abnormalities.
7. An individual with chronic ear pain and discharge undergoes a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to assess the condition of the hearing apparatus and identify any potential sources of infection or inflammation.
8. A provider orders a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati for a patient with a known history of otosclerosis to monitor the progression of the condition and assess the need for intervention.
9. A child with delayed speech development undergoes a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati to assess the condition of the hearing apparatus and identify any potential causes for the speech delay.
10. An individual with a family history of hearing loss undergoes a radiologic examination of the internal auditory meati as a preventive measure to identify any potential abnormalities or early signs of hearing loss.