How To Use CPT Code 70557

CPT 70557 describes the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during an open intracranial procedure to assess for residual tumor or residual vascular malformation in the brain. 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 70557?

CPT 70557 is a code used to describe the performance of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, during an open intracranial procedure. This procedure is performed to assess for any residual tumor or residual vascular malformation in the brain. It does not involve the use of contrast material.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70557 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, brain (including brain stem and skull base), during open intracranial procedure (eg, to assess for residual tumor or residual vascular malformation); without contrast material.’

3. Procedure

1. During an open intracranial procedure, the healthcare provider performs a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base.
2. This MRI study is performed to assess for any residual tumor or residual vascular malformation in the brain.
3. The patient is positioned appropriately under the MRI scanner.
4. Radio waves are used to manipulate the magnetic position of atoms in the body, and a powerful radio antenna picks up the location of these atoms.
5. The computer then generates cross-sectional black and white images of the brain, brain stem, and skull base.
6. The provider may use the MRI multiple times during the procedure to plan the path, preserve healthy tissue, verify removal of diseased tissue, and detect any problems.
7. This procedure is performed without the use of contrast material.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70557 is used when a healthcare provider performs an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, during an open intracranial procedure. This procedure is performed to assess for any residual tumor or residual vascular malformation in the brain. It does not involve the use of contrast material.

5. When to use CPT code 70557

CPT code 70557 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, during an open intracranial procedure to assess for residual tumor or residual vascular malformation. It should not be used when contrast material is administered during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 70557, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the open intracranial procedure
• Specific details of the MRI study, including the brain structures assessed
• Date and time of the procedure
• Findings of the MRI study, including any residual tumor or residual vascular malformation
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 70557, ensure that the procedure is performed during an open intracranial procedure and does not involve the use of contrast material. It should be reported separately from any other services provided during the same encounter. Modifier TC should be appended if only the technical component of the service is being reported, and modifier 26 should be appended if only the professional component is being reported.

8. Historical information

CPT code 70557 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2004. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A neurosurgeon performs an open intracranial procedure to remove a brain tumor. During the procedure, an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed to assess for any residual tumor.
2. An interventional radiologist performs an open intracranial procedure to treat a vascular malformation in the brain. During the procedure, an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed to ensure complete correction of the malformation.
3. A neurologist performs an open intracranial procedure to implant a deep brain stimulation device. During the procedure, an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed to verify the accurate placement of the device and assess for any complications.
4. A neurosurgeon performs an open intracranial procedure to repair a skull base fracture. During the procedure, an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed to assess for any associated brain injuries.
5. A neurosurgeon performs an open intracranial procedure to remove a vascular malformation in the brain. During the procedure, an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed to ensure complete removal of the malformation.
6. A neurologist performs an open intracranial procedure to treat epilepsy. During the procedure, an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed to assess for any underlying structural abnormalities.
7. A neurosurgeon performs an open intracranial procedure to remove a brain tumor. During the procedure, an MRI study of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed to guide the surgical approach and ensure complete tumor removal.