How To Use CPT Code 70460

CPT 70460 describes the use of computed tomography (CT) with contrast material to evaluate and diagnose abnormalities in the head or brain. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 70460?

CPT 70460 is used to describe the performance of a CT scan of the head or brain with the administration of contrast material. This procedure is utilized to diagnose and evaluate any abnormalities or conditions affecting the head or brain, such as cerebral aneurysms.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70460 is: ‘Computed tomography, head or brain; with contrast material(s).’ This code is used when a provider performs a CT scan of the head or brain using contrast material to enhance the visibility of internal structures.

3. Procedure

1. The provider utilizes a CT scanner to perform a radiographic imaging of the head or brain.
2. Contrast material is administered to the patient to improve the visibility of internal structures.
3. The patient lies still on the examination table while X-rays are focused on the head or brain.
4. A computer creates cross-sectional images of the head or brain, allowing for detailed study and evaluation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70460 is used when a CT scan of the head or brain is performed with the administration of contrast material. The contrast material can be intravascular, intraarticular, or intrathecal. This code should only be reported when contrast material is used during the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 70460

CPT code 70460 should be used when a provider performs a CT scan of the head or brain with the administration of contrast material. It is important to note that this code is specifically for scans with contrast, and if a CT scan without contrast is performed, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70460, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the CT scan of the head or brain
• Administration of contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Findings and impressions from the scan
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70460, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed includes the administration of contrast material. If contrast material is not used, a different code should be reported. Providers may also need to separately report the contrast material using a supply code or HCPCS Level II code, depending on payer guidelines. It is recommended to review individual payer policies for coverage and reporting requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT 70460 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2003, with the description being updated to include the term ‘computed tomography’.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a CT scan of the head with contrast material to evaluate a suspected cerebral aneurysm.
2. A provider performs a CT scan of the brain with contrast material to assess the extent of a brain tumor.
3. A CT scan of the head with contrast material is performed on a patient with suspected intracranial bleeding.
4. A provider orders a CT scan of the head with contrast material to investigate the cause of severe headaches.
5. A patient undergoes a CT scan of the brain with contrast material to evaluate the presence of a stroke.
6. A provider performs a CT scan of the head with contrast material to assess the extent of a traumatic brain injury.
7. A CT scan of the brain with contrast material is performed on a patient with suspected infections or abscesses.
8. A provider orders a CT scan of the head with contrast material to evaluate the presence of abnormal masses or lesions.
9. A patient undergoes a CT scan of the brain with contrast material to assess the effectiveness of a previous surgical intervention.
10. A CT scan of the head with contrast material is performed on a patient with suspected vascular abnormalities or malformations.