How To Use CPT Code 72142

CPT 72142 describes the diagnostic procedure of performing a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents using contrast material. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 72142?

CPT 72142 can be used to describe the diagnostic procedure of conducting an MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents with the use of contrast material. This code is utilized when a healthcare provider performs this imaging procedure to visualize and assess the cervical spine and its associated structures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 72142 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, spinal canal and contents, cervical; with contrast material(s).’ This code is specifically used for imaging the cervical spinal canal and its contents using MRI with the administration of contrast material.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned in a supine position on a narrow table, which is then slid into a large tunnel-shaped magnetic scanner.
2. The provider instructs the patient to hold their breath and remain still while images of the cervical spine are captured.
3. Contrast material is administered to the patient to enhance the visibility of internal structures.
4. The provider captures the radiofrequency signals generated by the body, and a computer generates a series of images that display slices of the cervical spine.
5. The provider reviews the images of the cervical canal and its contents, analyzes the findings, and interprets the results.
6. A written report is prepared by the provider, documenting their findings from the MRI study.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 72142 is typically performed on patients who require a diagnostic evaluation of the cervical spinal canal and its contents. This procedure is used to assess various conditions or abnormalities in the cervical spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, or other spinal disorders. The use of contrast material allows for better visualization and evaluation of these structures.

5. When to use CPT code 72142

CPT code 72142 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents using contrast material. This code is appropriate when the provider is specifically evaluating the cervical spine and its associated structures, and when contrast material is administered to enhance the visibility of these structures during the imaging procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 72142, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents
• Administration of contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Specific findings and interpretations from the MRI study
• Preparation of a written report documenting the results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 72142, ensure that the procedure involves the use of contrast material and is specifically focused on imaging the cervical spinal canal and its contents. It is important to follow payer guidelines regarding the reporting of contrast material separately, if applicable. Modifier 26 should be appended to the code if only the professional component is being reported, while modifier TC should be appended if only the technical component is being reported. However, it is essential to review payer policies and requirements for reporting the professional and technical components.

8. Historical information

CPT 72142 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 radiologist performing an MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents with the administration of contrast material to evaluate a patient with suspected spinal stenosis.
2. An orthopedic surgeon ordering an MRI study of the cervical spine with contrast to assess a patient with a suspected herniated disc.
3. A neurologist requesting an MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents with contrast to evaluate a patient with suspected spinal cord compression.
4. A pain management specialist performing an MRI study of the cervical spine with contrast to assess a patient with chronic neck pain.
5. An oncologist ordering an MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents with contrast to evaluate a patient with a suspected spinal tumor.
6. A chiropractor referring a patient for an MRI study of the cervical spine with contrast to assess the extent of a cervical spine injury.
7. A physical therapist requesting an MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents with contrast to evaluate a patient with suspected nerve impingement.
8. An occupational therapist ordering an MRI study of the cervical spine with contrast to assess a patient with suspected cervical radiculopathy.
9. A primary care physician referring a patient for an MRI study of the cervical spinal canal and its contents with contrast to evaluate a patient with persistent neck pain and neurological symptoms.
10. A sports medicine physician ordering an MRI study of the cervical spine with contrast to assess a patient with a suspected cervical spine ligament injury.