How To Use CPT Code 71101

CPT 71101 describes a radiologic examination of the ribs, specifically a unilateral study that includes a posteroanterior chest view. 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 71101?

CPT 71101 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the ribs, focusing on a unilateral study that includes a posteroanterior chest view. This procedure is performed to identify any issues or abnormalities related to the ribs.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 71101 is: ‘Radiologic examination, ribs, unilateral; including posteroanterior chest, minimum of 3 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider positions the patient against the image recording plate for the examination.
2. The patient holds their breath for a few seconds to ensure a clear image.
3. The provider takes three views of the ribs from the same side, with the patient’s arms elevated.
4. In addition to the three views, a posteroanterior view of the chest is also taken.
5. The X-ray machine emits a small burst of radiation that passes through the area being examined.
6. The X-ray beams are absorbed differently by various parts of the body, resulting in varying shades on the photographic film.
7. The dense bones appear white, while softer tissues appear darker.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 71101 is used when a provider performs a unilateral radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view. This code is specifically for a minimum of three views. It is important to note that this code is for unilateral studies only, meaning it is performed on one side of the body.

5. When to use CPT code 71101

CPT code 71101 should be used when a provider performs a radiologic examination of the ribs, focusing on a unilateral study that includes a posteroanterior chest view. This code is appropriate when a minimum of three views are taken. If only two views are performed, CPT code 71100 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 71101, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the radiologic examination of the ribs
• Specific number of views taken, including the posteroanterior chest view
• Date and time of the procedure
• Patient’s positioning during the examination
• Any additional relevant details or findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 71101, ensure that the provider performs a unilateral radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view. This code should only be reported for a minimum of three views. If the provider performs a bilateral examination or a different number of views, different codes should be used. Modifier 26 should be appended if only the professional component is being reported, and modifier TC should be appended if only the technical component is being reported. However, it is important to check payer policies regarding the use of these modifiers.

8. Historical information

CPT 71101 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2009, with the description being updated to include the minimum number of views required.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assess for any fractures or abnormalities.
2. A provider performs a unilateral study of the ribs, taking three views and a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate a patient’s rib pain.
3. A radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, is conducted on a patient with a history of trauma to assess for any rib fractures.
4. A provider performs a radiologic examination of the ribs, focusing on a unilateral study with three views and a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate a patient with suspected rib dislocation.
5. A patient undergoes a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assess for any signs of infection or inflammation.
6. A provider performs a unilateral study of the ribs, taking three views and a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate a patient with chronic rib pain.
7. A radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, is conducted on a patient with a history of lung disease to assess for any rib abnormalities.
8. A provider performs a radiologic examination of the ribs, focusing on a unilateral study with three views and a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate a patient with a suspected rib tumor.
9. A patient undergoes a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assess for any signs of rib inflammation related to a systemic condition.
10. A provider performs a unilateral study of the ribs, taking three views and a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate a patient with a history of rib fractures for proper healing.