How To Use CPT Code 71110

CPT 71110 describes a diagnostic radiology procedure that involves a three view bilateral radiological study of the ribs. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 71110?

CPT 71110 is a diagnostic radiology procedure used to examine the ribs. It involves a three view bilateral radiological study, which means that the provider takes X-ray images of the ribs from different angles on both sides of the patient. This procedure is performed to identify any problems or abnormalities related to the ribs.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 71110 is: ‘Radiologic examination, ribs, bilateral; three views.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned against the image recording plate for the examination.
2. The patient holds their breath for a few seconds to avoid a blurred image.
3. The provider takes three views of the ribs on both sides of the patient.
4. The views typically include an anteroposterior (front to back), posteroanterior (back to front), and lateral (side) view.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 71110 is used when a provider performs a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs. This procedure is typically done to evaluate the ribs for any abnormalities or conditions. It is important to note that this code is specifically for bilateral studies, meaning that images are taken on both sides of the patient.

5. When to use CPT code 71110

CPT code 71110 should be used when a provider performs a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs. This code is appropriate when the provider takes X-ray images of the ribs from different angles on both sides of the patient. It should not be used for unilateral (one-sided) examinations or for examinations that involve a different number of views.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 71110, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the examination
• Number and types of views taken
• Date of the examination
• Any relevant findings or abnormalities
• Signature of the provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 71110, ensure that the provider performs a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs. This code should not be reported for unilateral examinations or examinations with a different number of views. It is important to follow payer policies regarding the use of modifiers, such as modifier 26 for the professional component or modifier TC for the technical component, if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT code 71110 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There was a code change on January 1, 2009, which updated the description of the code to specify ‘three views’ instead of ‘minimum of 3 views.’

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs to evaluate a suspected rib fracture.
2. A provider performs a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs to assess the alignment and integrity of the rib cage after a traumatic injury.
3. A patient with chronic chest pain undergoes a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs to rule out any rib abnormalities or injuries.
4. A provider orders a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs for a patient with a history of lung disease to monitor for any changes or complications.
5. A patient presents with localized tenderness in the rib area, and a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs is performed to identify the cause of the pain.
6. A provider performs a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs as part of a routine screening for a patient with a family history of rib abnormalities.
7. A patient involved in a motor vehicle accident undergoes a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs to assess for any fractures or injuries.
8. A provider orders a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs for a patient with a history of osteoporosis to evaluate the bone density and integrity of the ribs.
9. A patient with a persistent cough undergoes a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs to check for any underlying rib abnormalities or lung conditions.
10. A provider performs a three view bilateral radiological examination of the ribs to assess the healing progress of a previously diagnosed rib fracture.