How To Use CPT Code 72074

CPT 72074 describes the radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, specifically a minimum of four views. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 72074?

CPT 72074 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, focusing on a minimum of four views. This procedure involves taking X-ray images of the vertebrae in the upper and middle back, known as the thoracic spine. The purpose of this examination is to diagnose and evaluate conditions such as abnormal curves, fractures, or cancer in the thoracic spine.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 72074 is: ‘Radiologic examination, spine; thoracic, minimum of 4 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on an X-ray table, and the provider carefully aligns the thoracic spine to be examined between the X-ray machine and a cassette containing the X-ray film or plate.
2. The provider performs a minimum of four views of the thoracic spine, capturing X-ray images from different angles.
3. The X-ray machine sends a beam of radiation through the patient’s back, and the resulting image is recorded on a computer or special film.
4. The provider ensures that the patient remains still during the examination to avoid blurring the images.
5. The X-ray images are then used to assess the condition of the thoracic spine, looking for any abnormalities or signs of disease.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 72074 is used when a minimum of four views of the thoracic spine are taken during a radiologic examination. This procedure is typically performed to evaluate specific conditions or symptoms related to the thoracic spine, such as abnormal curves, fractures, or cancer. The provider must document the medical necessity for this examination based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, or other relevant factors.

5. When to use CPT code 72074

CPT code 72074 should be used when a minimum of four views of the thoracic spine are taken during a radiologic examination. It is important to ensure that the documentation clearly describes each view taken and the specific body position and projection used by the provider. If the provider performs two or three views of the thoracic spine, different CPT codes should be used (72070 for two views and 72072 for three views).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 72074, the provider must document the following information:

• Medical necessity for the radiologic examination of the thoracic spine
• Number and specific views taken during the examination
• Date and time of the procedure
• Patient’s body position and projection used
• Any additional relevant information or findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 72074, ensure that the documentation supports the medical necessity for the radiologic examination of the thoracic spine. It is important to accurately report the number of views taken during the procedure. If only the physician’s interpretation is being reported, append modifier 26 to the radiology code. If only the technical component is being reported, append modifier TC to the radiology code. However, be aware that payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. If the provider renders both the professional and technical components, do not append any modifiers to the radiology code.

8. Historical information

CPT 72074 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been historical changes to the code, including code changes in 2001 and 2009.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, and the provider takes four views to assess for any fractures or abnormalities.
2. During a routine check-up, the provider orders a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, capturing a minimum of four views to evaluate the patient’s spinal health.
3. A patient presents with persistent back pain, and the provider performs a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, taking four views to identify any potential causes of the pain.
4. Following a car accident, the provider orders a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, capturing four views to assess for any spinal injuries or fractures.
5. A patient with a history of scoliosis undergoes a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, and the provider takes four views to monitor the progression of the condition.
6. During a preoperative evaluation, the provider orders a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, capturing a minimum of four views to ensure the patient’s spine is in optimal condition for surgery.
7. A patient with a suspected spinal tumor undergoes a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, and the provider takes four views to assess the presence and location of the tumor.
8. Following a fall, the provider orders a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, capturing four views to evaluate for any fractures or spinal cord injuries.
9. A patient with a history of osteoporosis undergoes a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, and the provider takes four views to assess for any signs of bone density loss or fractures.
10. During a sports physical, the provider orders a radiologic examination of the thoracic spine, capturing a minimum of four views to ensure the patient’s spine is healthy and free from any abnormalities.