How To Use CPT Code 70150

CPT 70150 describes the radiologic examination of the facial bones, specifically a complete examination with a minimum of three views. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 70150?

CPT 70150 can be used to describe a radiologic examination of the facial bones. This code is specifically used for a complete examination with a minimum of three views. It is performed to determine if the patient has sustained facial fractures or any other abnormalities. The preferred examination includes the acquisition of Waters, or occipitomental, PA, or lateral views or projections.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70150 is: ‘Radiologic examination, facial bones; complete, minimum of three views.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a plain X-ray exam of the facial bones, using a minimum of three views.
2. The X-ray views may include Waters, occipitomental, PA, or lateral views.
3. The purpose of the examination is to diagnose facial fractures or other abnormalities.
4. The provider ensures that the patient’s body position and projection of the X-ray are accurately documented.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70150 is used when a patient requires a radiologic examination of the facial bones. This may be due to suspected facial fractures or other abnormalities. The examination must include a minimum of three views, and the provider must document the specific views taken during the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 70150

CPT code 70150 should be used when a complete radiologic examination of the facial bones is performed, with a minimum of three views. This code is appropriate when the provider is assessing for facial fractures or other abnormalities. It should not be used for partial or limited examinations of the facial bones.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70150, the provider must document the following information:

• The specific views taken during the examination, such as Waters, occipitomental, PA, or lateral views.
• The reason for the examination, such as suspected facial fractures or other abnormalities.
• The date and time of the procedure.
• The patient’s body position during the examination.
• The provider’s signature.

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70150, ensure that the examination includes a minimum of three views of the facial bones. The documentation should clearly describe each view taken during the procedure. It is important to accurately report the specific views performed to ensure proper reimbursement. Additionally, be sure to follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the use of CPT code 70150.

8. Historical information

CPT 70150 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. On January 1, 2009, the code description was changed to ‘Radiologic examination, facial bones; complete, minimum of three views.’

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with facial trauma following a car accident. The provider performs a radiologic examination of the facial bones, including Waters, PA, and lateral views, to assess for fractures.
2. A patient complains of chronic sinusitis. The provider orders a radiologic examination of the facial bones, specifically a Waters view, to help diagnose the condition.
3. A patient sustains a sports-related injury to the face. The provider performs a complete radiologic examination of the facial bones, including occipitomental, PA, and lateral views, to assess for fractures.
4. A patient with a history of facial fractures undergoes a routine follow-up radiologic examination of the facial bones, including Waters, PA, and lateral views, to ensure proper healing.
5. A patient presents with facial pain and swelling. The provider orders a radiologic examination of the facial bones, including Waters, occipitomental, and lateral views, to assess for any abnormalities.
6. A patient with a suspected nasal fracture undergoes a radiologic examination of the facial bones, specifically a minimum of three views of the nasal bones, to confirm the diagnosis.
7. A patient with a history of facial trauma undergoes a routine radiologic examination of the facial bones, including Waters, PA, and lateral views, to monitor for any changes or complications.
8. A patient presents with facial asymmetry. The provider orders a radiologic examination of the facial bones, including Waters, occipitomental, and lateral views, to assess for any structural abnormalities.
9. A patient with a suspected facial fracture undergoes a radiologic examination of the facial bones, including Waters, PA, and lateral views, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the injury.
10. A patient with a history of facial fractures undergoes a routine follow-up radiologic examination of the facial bones, including Waters, occipitomental, and lateral views, to ensure proper healing and assess for any complications.