How To Use CPT Code 70370

CPT 70370 describes the radiologic examination of the pharynx or larynx, including the use of fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique. 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 70370?

CPT 70370 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the pharynx or larynx. This procedure involves the use of fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique to diagnose swallowing or breathing difficulties, as well as abnormalities of the voice box. It allows healthcare providers to visualize and assess the structures of the pharynx and larynx in order to identify any potential issues or abnormalities.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70370 is: ‘Radiologic examination; pharynx or larynx, including fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider uses fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique to examine the pharynx or larynx.
2. The purpose of this examination is to identify any abnormalities or difficulties related to swallowing, breathing, or the voice box.
3. Fluoroscopy is a live X-ray imaging technique that allows the provider to view the body structures in real-time while performing the examination.
4. Magnification technique involves the use of increased radiation dose compared to conventional imaging techniques to obtain high-quality images of the areas of interest.
5. The provider carefully examines the pharynx and larynx to identify any abnormalities or issues in the food or air passages, as well as the voice box.
6. Additional radiation doses may be necessary to obtain clear and detailed images of specific areas of interest.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70370 is typically performed when there is a need to evaluate the pharynx or larynx for potential abnormalities or difficulties related to swallowing, breathing, or the voice box. This procedure is commonly used to diagnose conditions such as swallowing disorders, airway obstructions, and voice disorders. It is important to note that the use of fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique is essential in order to accurately visualize and assess the structures of the pharynx and larynx.

5. When to use CPT code 70370

CPT code 70370 should be used when a radiologic examination of the pharynx or larynx is performed, including the use of fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique. This code is appropriate when there is a need to evaluate the structures of the pharynx or larynx for potential abnormalities or difficulties related to swallowing, breathing, or the voice box. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

In order to support a claim for CPT code 70370, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the examination and the specific symptoms or concerns of the patient
• Details of the fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique used during the procedure
• Any abnormalities or difficulties identified during the examination
• Additional radiation doses administered, if applicable
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 70370, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique should be clearly documented in the medical record. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer. It is recommended to review the payer’s policies and guidelines to ensure accurate and appropriate billing for CPT code 70370.

8. Historical information

CPT code 70370 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 difficulty swallowing, and a radiologic examination of the pharynx is performed using fluoroscopy to identify any abnormalities.
2. A patient complains of hoarseness, and a radiologic examination of the larynx is conducted using magnification technique to assess the voice box for any issues.
3. A patient experiences shortness of breath, and a radiologic examination of the pharynx and larynx is performed using both fluoroscopy and magnification technique to evaluate the air passages for any obstructions.
4. A patient has a history of voice problems, and a radiologic examination of the larynx is conducted using fluoroscopy to assess the vocal cords for any abnormalities.
5. A patient presents with difficulty breathing, and a radiologic examination of the pharynx and larynx is performed using both fluoroscopy and magnification technique to identify any airway obstructions.
6. A patient complains of pain while swallowing, and a radiologic examination of the pharynx is conducted using magnification technique to assess the food passage for any abnormalities.
7. A patient experiences frequent coughing, and a radiologic examination of the larynx is performed using fluoroscopy to evaluate the voice box for any issues.
8. A patient has a history of recurrent respiratory infections, and a radiologic examination of the pharynx and larynx is conducted using both fluoroscopy and magnification technique to identify any abnormalities in the air passages.