How To Use CPT Code 70450

CPT 70450 is a code used for computed tomography (CT) scans of the head or brain without contrast material, and this article will cover its description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes, and examples.

1. What is CPT 70450?

CPT 70450 is a code used to describe a computed tomography (CT) scan of the head or brain without the use of contrast material. This diagnostic imaging procedure is performed to identify any abnormalities in the brain or intracranial structures and is an essential tool for medical professionals to diagnose and treat various conditions affecting the head or brain.

2. 70450 CPT code description

The official description of CPT code 70450 is: “Computed tomography, head or brain; without contrast material.”

3. Procedure

The 70450 procedure involves the following steps:

1. The patient is positioned on the examination table, usually lying on their back.
2. The CT scanner is adjusted to focus on the head or brain area.
3. X-rays are emitted from the scanner, passing through the patient’s head or brain.
4. A computer processes the X-ray data and generates cross-sectional images of the head or brain.
5. The radiologist reviews the images to identify any abnormalities or issues.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT code 70450 services are those who require a CT scan of the head or brain for diagnostic purposes. This may include individuals experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, vision problems, seizures, or other neurological issues. Additionally, patients with a history of head trauma, brain tumors, or other intracranial conditions may also qualify for this procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 70450

It is appropriate to bill the 70450 CPT code when a CT scan of the head or brain without contrast material is performed for diagnostic purposes. This may be due to the presence of symptoms, a history of head or brain-related conditions, or as part of a comprehensive evaluation for a specific medical concern.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70450, the following information should be documented:

• Patient’s medical history and presenting symptoms
• Physical examination findings
• Rationale for performing the CT scan without contrast material
• Details of the CT scan procedure, including the date and time
• Radiologist’s interpretation of the CT scan images and any identified abnormalities
• Diagnosis and treatment plan based on the CT scan results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 70450, it is essential to follow the appropriate guidelines and rules. Some tips for billing this code include:

• Ensure that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the CT scan without contrast material.
• Verify that the patient’s insurance plan covers the procedure.
• Check for any additional codes that may apply, such as those for the radiologist’s interpretation or the use of contrast material in other parts of the examination.
• Review payer-specific policies for contrast coverage and reportable supply codes, if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 70450 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code descriptor was changed on January 1, 2003, from “Computerized axial tomography, head or brain; without contrast material” to its current description.

9. Similar codes to CPT 70450

Five similar codes to CPT 70450 and how they differ are:

1. CPT 70460: This code is used for CT scans of the head or brain with contrast material.
2. CPT 70470: This code is used for CT scans of the head or brain performed initially without contrast, followed by the administration of contrast material and additional imaging.
3. CPT 70480: This code is used for CT scans of the orbit, face, and/or neck without contrast material.
4. CPT 70481: This code is used for CT scans of the orbit, face, and/or neck with contrast material.
5. CPT 70482: This code is used for CT scans of the orbit, face, and/or neck performed initially without contrast, followed by the administration of contrast material and additional imaging.

10. Examples

Here are 10 detailed examples of CPT code 70450 procedures:

1. A patient presents with severe headaches and a history of brain tumor; a CT scan of the head without contrast is performed to evaluate the current status of the tumor.
2. A patient experiences sudden vision loss; a CT scan of the brain without contrast is performed to rule out intracranial causes.
3. A patient with a history of head trauma undergoes a CT scan of the head without contrast to assess for any structural damage or complications.
4. A patient presents with unexplained seizures; a CT scan of the brain without contrast is performed to identify any underlying abnormalities.
5. A patient with persistent dizziness undergoes a CT scan of the head without contrast to evaluate for possible intracranial causes.
6. A patient with a known brain aneurysm undergoes a CT scan of the head without contrast to monitor the aneurysm’s size and stability.
7. A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of a brain infection; a CT scan of the brain without contrast is performed to identify any signs of inflammation or abscess formation.
8. A patient with a history of stroke undergoes a CT scan of the brain without contrast to assess for any new or worsening ischemic changes.
9. A patient presents with symptoms of increased intracranial pressure; a CT scan of the head without contrast is performed to evaluate for possible causes, such as hydrocephalus or mass effect.
10. A patient with a known brain malformation undergoes a CT scan of the head without contrast to monitor the condition and assess for any complications.