How To Use CPT Code 70548

CPT 70548 describes the use of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) with contrast material to visualize the vessels of the neck and surrounding areas. 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 70548?

CPT 70548 is a code used to describe the performance of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) on the vessels of the neck and surrounding areas. This procedure involves the use of contrast material to enhance the visibility of internal structures or organs of the body. The provider administers the contrast material to the patient, either orally or intravenously, before conducting the MRA. The MRA uses powerful MRI technology to visualize blood flow in arterial vessels and detect any abnormalities such as aneurysms or blood clots.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70548 is: ‘Magnetic resonance angiography, neck; with contrast material(s).’ This code specifically refers to the use of contrast material during the MRA procedure.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on an examination table and instructed to lie still.
2. Contrast material is administered to the patient, either orally or intravenously, to improve the visibility of the blood vessels.
3. Devices that can transmit radio waves are placed adjacent to the neck.
4. An electric current is passed through the devices, creating a magnetic field.
5. The magnetic field generates data, which is then processed by a computer to create high-resolution three-dimensional images of the blood vessels.
6. The provider interprets the images to assess the blood flow and detect any abnormalities.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70548 is typically performed on patients who require a detailed evaluation of the blood vessels in their neck and surrounding areas. This procedure is useful for detecting aneurysms, blood clots, and other vascular irregularities. The use of contrast material enhances the visibility of the blood vessels, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis. It is important to note that the contrast material must be administered intravascularly, intraarticularly, or intrathecally to qualify for this code.

5. When to use CPT code 70548

CPT code 70548 should be used when a provider performs magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) on the vessels of the neck and surrounding areas using contrast material. This code is appropriate when the MRA is conducted to evaluate the blood flow and detect any abnormalities in the arterial vessels. It is important to ensure that the contrast material is administered intravascularly, intraarticularly, or intrathecally to meet the requirements of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70548, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the MRA procedure
• Type and route of contrast material administered
• Date and time of the procedure
• Interpretation of the MRA images
• Any additional findings or observations
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70548, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements of the code. The use of contrast material is essential for this code, and it must be administered intravascularly, intraarticularly, or intrathecally. Providers should also follow any additional guidelines or policies set by individual payers regarding the reporting of contrast material and the use of modifiers. It is important to accurately report the professional and technical components of the service, using the appropriate modifiers if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 70548 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the neck with contrast material to evaluate blood flow and detect any abnormalities in the arterial vessels.
2. A provider administers contrast material intravascularly to a patient before performing MRA of the neck to enhance the visibility of the blood vessels and assess their condition.
3. A patient with suspected aneurysm undergoes MRA of the neck with contrast material to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
4. A provider uses MRA with contrast material to evaluate the blood flow in the neck vessels of a patient with a history of blood clots.
5. A patient undergoes MRA of the neck with contrast material to assess the patency of the arterial vessels and detect any stenosis or blockages.
6. A provider performs MRA of the neck with contrast material on a patient with symptoms of vascular irregularities to identify the underlying cause.
7. A patient with a suspected vascular malformation undergoes MRA of the neck with contrast material to visualize the blood vessels and guide further treatment decisions.
8. A provider uses MRA with contrast material to assess the blood flow in the neck vessels of a patient with a history of trauma or injury.
9. A patient with symptoms of arterial dissection undergoes MRA of the neck with contrast material to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate management approach.
10. A provider performs MRA of the neck with contrast material on a patient with suspected arteriovenous malformation to visualize the abnormal blood vessels and plan the treatment accordingly.