How To Use CPT Code 72147

CPT 72147 describes the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the thoracic spinal canal and contents using 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 72147?

CPT 72147 can be used to describe the diagnostic procedure of MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents with the use of contrast material. This code is specifically used when the provider needs to visualize and assess the thoracic spine using magnetic fields and radio waves to diagnose, manage, and treat diseases.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 72147 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, spinal canal and contents, thoracic; with contrast material(s).’ It is important to note that if the imaging is performed without contrast material followed by contrast material, CPT code 72157 should be used instead. Additionally, for magnetic resonance spectroscopy or the determination and localization of discogenic pain, different codes should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the scanning table and is slid into a large tunnel-shaped magnetic scanner, placing the patient’s body inside a strong magnetic field.
2. The provider instructs the patient to hold their breath and remain still while the images of the thoracic spine are taken.
3. If necessary, contrast material is injected to enhance the visibility of internal structures or organs of the body.
4. The radiofrequency signals generated by the body are captured, and a computer generates a series of images that display slices of the thoracic spine.
5. The provider reviews the images, performs analysis, and interprets the results.
6. A written report of the findings is prepared by the provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 72147 is used when a provider performs an MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents using contrast material. This procedure is typically performed to diagnose, manage, and treat diseases or conditions affecting the thoracic spine. The use of contrast material helps improve the visibility of internal structures or organs during the imaging process.

5. When to use CPT code 72147

CPT code 72147 should be used when a provider performs an MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents with the use of contrast material. It is important to ensure that the contrast material is administered intravascularly, intraarticularly, or intrathecally to qualify for this specific code. If the imaging is performed without contrast material followed by contrast material, CPT code 72157 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 72147, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents
• Use of contrast material during the procedure
• Date and time of the procedure
• Specific findings and interpretations
• Written report of the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 72147, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this specific code. The use of contrast material is a key factor in distinguishing this code from others. If the provider only performs the interpretation for the radiology service, modifier 26 should be appended to the radiology code. If only the technical component is reported, modifier TC should be appended. However, payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. It is also important to consider payer guidelines for reporting contrast separately using supply codes or HCPCS Level II codes.

8. Historical information

CPT code 72147 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 thoracic spinal canal and contents with contrast material to assess a suspected spinal cord injury.
2. A provider performs an MRI of the thoracic spine with contrast material to evaluate a patient with suspected spinal tumors.
3. An individual undergoes an MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents with contrast material to investigate the cause of unexplained back pain.
4. A patient with a history of spinal stenosis undergoes an MRI of the thoracic spine with contrast material to assess the progression of the condition.
5. An individual undergoes an MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents with contrast material to evaluate the presence of herniated discs.
6. A provider performs an MRI of the thoracic spine with contrast material to assess the extent of spinal cord compression in a patient with spinal cord injury.
7. A patient with suspected spinal infections undergoes an MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents with contrast material for diagnostic purposes.
8. An individual undergoes an MRI of the thoracic spine with contrast material to evaluate the presence of spinal tumors or lesions.
9. A provider performs an MRI of the thoracic spinal canal and contents with contrast material to assess the integrity of the spinal cord in a patient with neurological symptoms.
10. A patient with a history of spinal trauma undergoes an MRI of the thoracic spine with contrast material to evaluate the extent of the injury.