How To Use CPT Code 72120

CPT 72120 describes the radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine, specifically focusing on bending views. 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 72120?

CPT 72120 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine, specifically focusing on bending views. This procedure allows healthcare providers to evaluate the patient’s spine for abnormal curves, fractures, or cancer. The provider takes two or three X-ray images of the lumbar and sacral vertebrae while the patient is in a bending position.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 72120 is: ‘Radiologic examination, spine, lumbosacral; bending views only, 2 or 3 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider positions the patient in a bending position to focus the X-ray beam on the lumbosacral spine.
2. The provider takes two or three X-ray images of the lumbar and sacral vertebrae.
3. The patient remains still during the examination to ensure clear images.
4. An 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.
5. The provider evaluates the X-ray images to assess the presence of abnormal curves, fractures, or cancer in the lumbosacral spine.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 72120 is used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views. This procedure is typically performed to evaluate the patient’s spine for abnormal curves, fractures, or cancer. It is important to note that contrast material in CT scans of the spine may require additional codes.

5. When to use CPT code 72120

CPT code 72120 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views. This code is appropriate when two or three X-ray images are taken while the patient is in a bending position. It is important to use the correct code based on the number of views taken during the examination.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 72120, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine
• Number of bending views taken (two or three)
• Date of the examination
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Positioning of the patient during the examination
• Interpretation of the X-ray images
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 72120, ensure that the healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views. Use the appropriate code based on the number of views taken during the procedure. It is important to follow payer policies regarding the use of professional and technical modifiers for radiology services.

8. Historical information

CPT 72120 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been historical changes to the code, including updates on January 1, 2009, and January 1, 2012.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views to evaluate a patient with suspected scoliosis.
2. A patient with a history of trauma undergoes a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views to assess for possible fractures.
3. A healthcare provider orders a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views for a patient with persistent lower back pain.
4. A patient with a family history of spinal abnormalities undergoes a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views as a preventive measure.
5. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views to monitor the progression of a known spinal deformity in a pediatric patient.
6. A patient with a history of cancer undergoes a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views to assess for metastasis.
7. A healthcare provider orders a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views for a patient with unexplained back pain and neurological symptoms.
8. A patient with a recent sports injury undergoes a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views to evaluate for possible ligamentous damage.
9. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views to assess the effectiveness of a previous spinal surgery.
10. A patient with chronic back pain undergoes a radiologic examination of the lumbosacral spine with bending views to guide further treatment options.