How To Use CPT Code 70380

CPT 70380 describes the radiologic examination of the salivary gland for calculus. 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 70380?

CPT 70380 can be used to describe the radiologic examination of the salivary gland to check for the presence of calculi, or stones. This code is used when a provider performs an X-ray exam of the parotid, or salivary, gland to identify any obstructions or infections within the gland.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70380 is: ‘Radiologic examination, salivary gland for calculus.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs an X-ray exam of the parotid, or salivary, gland to check for any existing sialolithiasis, or calculi of the salivary gland.
2. A small amount of contrast agent may be injected directly into the salivary ducts to enhance the structure of the salivary gland.
3. The provider identifies any obstructions or infections within the gland.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT 70380 services are those who require a radiologic examination of the salivary gland to check for the presence of calculi. The provider must perform the examination and identify any obstructions or infections within the gland.

5. When to use CPT code 70380

CPT code 70380 should be used when a provider performs a radiologic examination of the salivary gland specifically to check for the presence of calculi. This code should not be used for other types of radiologic examinations or for examinations of other structures or organs.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70380, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the radiologic examination of the salivary gland
• Details of the examination, including the use of contrast agent if applicable
• Findings of the examination, including any identified calculi, obstructions, or infections
• Signature of the provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70380, ensure that the provider performs the radiologic examination of the salivary gland specifically for calculus. This code should not be reported for other types of radiologic examinations or for examinations of other structures or organs. Check individual payer’s policies for coverage and any additional reporting requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT 70380 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs an X-ray exam of the parotid gland to check for the presence of calculi in a patient with symptoms of salivary gland obstruction.
2. A radiologist examines the salivary gland using X-ray imaging to identify any obstructions or infections in a patient with recurrent salivary gland infections.
3. A dentist orders a radiologic examination of the salivary gland to check for the presence of calculi in a patient with chronic dry mouth.
4. A maxillofacial surgeon performs an X-ray exam of the salivary gland to evaluate a patient with swelling and pain in the jaw area.
5. A otolaryngologist uses radiologic imaging to assess the salivary gland for the presence of calculi in a patient with recurrent salivary gland stones.
6. A provider performs an X-ray exam of the salivary gland to rule out the presence of calculi in a patient with unexplained facial pain.
7. A radiologist examines the salivary gland using X-ray imaging to evaluate a patient with a suspected salivary gland tumor.
8. A dentist orders a radiologic examination of the salivary gland to check for the presence of calculi in a patient with difficulty swallowing.
9. A maxillofacial surgeon performs an X-ray exam of the salivary gland to assess a patient with facial swelling and tenderness.
10. An otolaryngologist uses radiologic imaging to evaluate the salivary gland for the presence of calculi in a patient with recurrent salivary gland infections.