How To Use CPT Code 72198

CPT 72198 describes the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the blood vessels in the pelvis. 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 72198?

CPT 72198 is used to describe the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the blood vessels in the pelvis. This procedure allows healthcare providers to visualize and evaluate the arteries and veins in the pelvic area for conditions such as stenosis or aneurysms. Contrast material may be used during the procedure to enhance the images.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 72198 is: ‘Magnetic resonance angiography, pelvis, with or without contrast material(s).’ This code specifically refers to the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to generate images of the blood vessels in the pelvis for evaluation.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the MRI table, which slides into a large tunnel-shaped magnetic scanner.
2. The patient’s pelvis is placed inside a strong magnetic field.
3. If necessary, contrast material may be injected into the patient’s blood vessels to enhance the images.
4. The MRI scanner captures radiofrequency signals generated by the patient’s body.
5. A computer generates a series of images that display the vascular structure of the pelvic area.
6. The healthcare provider reviews the images, analyzes them, and interprets the results.
7. A written report is prepared, documenting the findings of the MRA.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 72198 is typically performed when there is a suspected stenosis or aneurysm in the blood vessels of the pelvis. It is important to note that this procedure specifically focuses on the evaluation of the pelvic blood vessels and should not be used for other areas of the body. The use of contrast material may be necessary to enhance the images and improve the accuracy of the evaluation.

5. When to use CPT code 72198

CPT code 72198 should be used when a healthcare provider performs magnetic resonance angiography of the blood vessels in the pelvis. It is important to ensure that the procedure is specifically focused on the pelvic area and not other regions of the body. The use of contrast material may be necessary, depending on the provider’s judgment and the patient’s condition.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 72198, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the MRA of the pelvic blood vessels
• Whether contrast material was used and, if so, the type and amount
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any specific findings or abnormalities observed during the evaluation
• Interpretation of the images and analysis of the results
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 72198, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed is specifically focused on the blood vessels in the pelvis. The use of contrast material should be documented if applicable. Additionally, it is important to follow payer guidelines regarding the reporting of professional and technical components, as well as any specific requirements for reporting contrast material separately.

8. Historical information

CPT 72198 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs magnetic resonance angiography of the blood vessels in the pelvis to evaluate a patient with suspected stenosis.
2. An individual undergoes an MRA of the pelvic blood vessels to assess the presence of an aneurysm.
3. A patient with a history of pelvic vascular abnormalities undergoes a follow-up MRA to monitor the condition.
4. A healthcare provider performs an MRA of the pelvic blood vessels to evaluate a patient with unexplained pelvic pain.
5. An individual undergoes an MRA of the pelvic blood vessels as part of a preoperative assessment for a pelvic surgery.
6. A healthcare provider performs an MRA of the pelvic blood vessels to evaluate a patient with suspected vascular malformations.
7. An individual undergoes an MRA of the pelvic blood vessels to assess the blood flow in the pelvic region.
8. A patient with a known pelvic aneurysm undergoes an MRA to monitor the size and progression of the aneurysm.
9. A healthcare provider performs an MRA of the pelvic blood vessels to evaluate a patient with suspected pelvic congestion syndrome.
10. An individual undergoes an MRA of the pelvic blood vessels to assess the blood supply to the pelvic organs.