How To Use CPT Code 71111

CPT 71111 describes a radiologic examination of the ribs, specifically a minimum of four views including 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 71111?

CPT 71111 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the ribs, specifically a minimum of four views including a posteroanterior chest view. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs this diagnostic procedure to identify any issues related to the ribs.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 71111 is: ‘Radiologic examination, ribs, bilateral; including posteroanterior chest, minimum of four views.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider positions the patient 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 a minimum of four views of the ribs from the same side, with the patient against the image recording plate with arms elevated.
4. The views taken are bilateral and include a posteroanterior view of the chest.
5. The X-ray machine produces a small burst of radiation that passes through the area to be examined.
6. The provider captures the images on photographic film, with dense bones appearing white and softer tissues appearing darker.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 71111 is used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the ribs, specifically a minimum of four views including a posteroanterior chest view. This procedure is typically done to identify any issues related to the ribs, such as fractures or abnormalities.

5. When to use CPT code 71111

CPT code 71111 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the ribs, specifically a minimum of four views including a posteroanterior chest view. This code is appropriate when the provider is evaluating the patient for any rib-related issues or abnormalities.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 71111, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the examination and the need for rib evaluation
• Number of views taken, including the posteroanterior chest view
• Date and time of the examination
• Patient’s positioning during the procedure
• Any abnormalities or findings observed during the examination
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 71111, ensure that the healthcare provider performs a minimum of four views, including a posteroanterior chest view. This code should be reported for each examination performed. It is important to note that CPT code 71111 should not be reported if the provider performs a two-view unilateral examination of the ribs (use CPT code 71100) or a three-view unilateral examination including a posteroanterior chest view (use CPT code 71101). Modifier 26 should be appended if reporting only the physician’s interpretation, and modifier TC should be appended if reporting only the technical component.

8. Historical information

CPT code 71111 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2009, with the addition of the phrase “minimum of four views” to the official description.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate for any fractures or abnormalities.
2. A healthcare provider performs a minimum of four views of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assess a patient’s rib pain and determine the cause.
3. A radiologic technologist captures images of a patient’s ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assist in diagnosing a potential rib injury.
4. A physician orders a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate a patient’s rib cage after a traumatic event.
5. A healthcare provider performs a minimum of four views of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to screen for any rib abnormalities in a patient with a family history of rib-related conditions.
6. A radiologic technologist positions a patient for a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assess for any rib fractures or dislocations.
7. A physician reviews the images from a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to determine the extent of a patient’s rib injury.
8. A radiologic technologist takes a minimum of four views of a patient’s ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assist in diagnosing a potential rib tumor.
9. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to evaluate a patient’s rib cage after a surgical procedure.
10. A radiologic technologist captures images of a patient’s ribs, including a posteroanterior chest view, to assist in diagnosing a potential rib infection.