How To Use CPT Code 72141

CPT 72141 describes the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without the use of contrast material. 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 72141?

CPT 72141 can be used to describe the diagnostic procedure of MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without the administration of contrast material. This code is used when a provider performs an MRI study of the vertebrae in the neck area to visualize and diagnose diseases or conditions affecting the cervical spine.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 72141 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, spinal canal and contents, cervical; without contrast material.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned in a supine position on a narrow table that slides into a large tunnel-shaped scanner.
2. The provider instructs the patient to hold their breath and remain still while images of the cervical spine are taken.
3. The MRI machine generates radiofrequency signals from the patient’s body, which are used to create a series of images on a monitor.
4. The provider reviews the images of the cervical spine, analyzes them, and interprets the results.
5. A written report of the findings is prepared by the provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 72141 is used for patients who require a diagnostic MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without the use of contrast material. This procedure is typically performed to evaluate conditions or diseases affecting the neck area, such as spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, tumors, or infections. The provider must ensure that the patient meets the necessary criteria for the procedure and that the use of contrast material is not required.

5. When to use CPT code 72141

CPT code 72141 should be used when a provider performs an MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without the administration of contrast material. It is important to accurately document the absence of contrast material in the procedure to ensure proper coding and billing.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 72141, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the MRI of the cervical spine
• Confirmation that no contrast material was used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Images obtained and their interpretation
• Written report of the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 72141, it is important to ensure that the procedure was performed without the use of contrast material. If contrast material was administered, a different code should be used. Additionally, follow the payer’s guidelines regarding the reporting of contrast material and any applicable modifiers for professional or technical components.

8. Historical information

CPT 72141 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes an MRI of the cervical spine without contrast material to evaluate a suspected herniated disc.
2. A provider performs an MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without contrast material to assess a patient with suspected spinal cord compression.
3. An individual undergoes an MRI of the cervical spine without contrast material to investigate chronic neck pain.
4. A provider orders an MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without contrast material to evaluate a patient with suspected spinal stenosis.
5. A patient undergoes an MRI of the cervical spine without contrast material to assess the extent of a known spinal tumor.
6. An individual undergoes an MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without contrast material to investigate the cause of persistent neck stiffness.
7. A provider orders an MRI of the cervical spine without contrast material to evaluate a patient with suspected cervical radiculopathy.
8. A patient undergoes an MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without contrast material to assess the integrity of the spinal cord following trauma.
9. An individual undergoes an MRI of the cervical spine without contrast material to investigate the cause of recurrent headaches.
10. A provider orders an MRI of the cervical spinal canal and its contents without contrast material to evaluate a patient with suspected degenerative disc disease.