How To Use CPT Code 72132

CPT 72132 describes the diagnostic procedure of computed tomography (CT) of the lumbar spine with the use of contrast material. This article will provide an overview of CPT 72132, including its official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 72132?

CPT 72132 is used to describe a diagnostic procedure known as computed tomography (CT) of the lumbar spine with the administration of contrast material. This procedure involves the use of X-ray technology to produce cross-sectional images of the lower back, specifically the vertebrae in the lumbar spine (L1-L5). The contrast material is used to enhance the visibility of internal structures or organs during the imaging process.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 72132 is: ‘Computed tomography, lumbar spine; with contrast material.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned appropriately and may be sedated if necessary.
2. The patient lies on the scanner bed, which slowly moves into the CT scanner.
3. The healthcare provider administers contrast material to the patient, either intravenously or through other routes.
4. The CT scanner takes multiple cross-sectional images of the lumbar spine.
5. The healthcare provider examines the images on a computer monitor and interprets the diagnostic results.
6. The images may be stored, reconstructed, and reproduced for further evaluation if needed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 72132 is used when a healthcare provider performs a CT scan of the lumbar spine with the use of contrast material. The contrast material must be administered intravascularly, intraarticularly, or intrathecally to qualify for this code. It is important to note that the provider must follow the specific guidelines and requirements set by individual payers regarding the use of contrast material and the reporting of supply codes.

5. When to use CPT code 72132

CPT code 72132 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a CT scan of the lumbar spine with the administration of contrast material. It is important to ensure that the contrast material used meets the qualifying circumstances mentioned above. If the CT scan is performed without the use of contrast material, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 72132, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the CT scan of the lumbar spine
• Administration of contrast material and the specific route used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Interpretation of the diagnostic results
• Any additional evaluation or follow-up required
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 72132, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of contrast material must be documented and meet the qualifying circumstances. Providers should also follow the billing guidelines and policies set by individual payers regarding the reporting of supply codes and the use of modifiers, such as professional component modifier 26 or technical component modifier TC.

8. Historical information

CPT 72132 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been historical changes to the code, including a code change on January 1, 2003, which modified the description to include the use of contrast material.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a CT scan of the lumbar spine with the administration of contrast material to evaluate a suspected disc herniation.
2. A healthcare provider performs a CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material to assess the extent of a spinal tumor.
3. A patient with chronic lower back pain undergoes a CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material to identify any underlying structural abnormalities.
4. A healthcare provider orders a CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material for a patient with suspected spinal stenosis.
5. A CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material is performed on a patient with a history of trauma to assess for any fractures or dislocations.
6. A healthcare provider utilizes a CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material to evaluate the effectiveness of a previous spinal surgery.
7. A patient with radiculopathy undergoes a CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material to identify the specific nerve root involved.
8. A healthcare provider orders a CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material to assess the progression of a degenerative disc disease.
9. A patient with suspected infection in the lumbar spine undergoes a CT scan with contrast material to identify any abscesses or inflammatory changes.
10. A healthcare provider performs a CT scan of the lumbar spine with contrast material to evaluate the response to a recent therapeutic intervention.