How To Use CPT Code 70190

CPT 70190 describes the radiologic examination of the optic foramina to diagnose any pathology in the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery. 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 70190?

CPT 70190 is used to describe the radiologic examination of the optic foramina. This procedure is performed to diagnose any pathology in the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery. It involves the use of X-rays to identify serious injuries, abnormal growth of tissue in the optic nerve, or the presence of foreign bodies.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70190 is: ‘Radiologic examination; optic foramina.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs an X-ray examination of the optic foramina to assess the condition of the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery.
2. The X-ray images are taken to identify any abnormalities, such as injuries, growths, or foreign bodies.
3. The provider analyzes the images to make a diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
4. If necessary, additional imaging or diagnostic tests may be recommended to further evaluate the condition.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70190 is used when there is a need to examine the optic foramina for diagnostic purposes. This procedure is typically performed to identify any pathology in the optic nerve or ophthalmic artery. It may be necessary in cases of suspected injuries, abnormal growths, or the presence of foreign bodies. The provider must have the expertise to perform and interpret the radiologic examination.

5. When to use CPT code 70190

CPT code 70190 should be used when a radiologic examination of the optic foramina is performed to diagnose any pathology in the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery. It is appropriate when there is a clinical suspicion of injuries, growths, or foreign bodies affecting these structures. This code should not be used for routine screening or unrelated diagnostic purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70190, the provider must document the following information:

• Clinical indication for the radiologic examination
• Findings from the examination, including any abnormalities or pathology identified
• Interpretation of the images by the provider
• Recommendations for further evaluation or treatment, if applicable
• Signature of the provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70190, ensure that the radiologic examination of the optic foramina is performed by a qualified provider. Follow the appropriate coding and billing guidelines of the payer. It is important to note that CPT code 70190 should not be reported with other codes unless specifically indicated by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 70190 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 a history of trauma to the eye and complains of vision loss. The provider performs a radiologic examination of the optic foramina to assess for any injuries or damage to the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery.
2. A patient reports persistent headaches and visual disturbances. The provider orders a radiologic examination of the optic foramina to investigate potential causes, such as abnormal growths or vascular abnormalities.
3. A patient presents with a foreign body sensation in the eye. The provider performs a radiologic examination of the optic foramina to identify the presence and location of any foreign bodies that may be affecting the optic nerve or ophthalmic artery.
4. A patient with a known history of optic nerve pathology undergoes a follow-up radiologic examination of the optic foramina to monitor the progression of the condition and assess the effectiveness of treatment.
5. A patient with a suspected vascular abnormality in the optic nerve undergoes a radiologic examination of the optic foramina to evaluate the blood flow and identify any potential issues.