How To Use CPT Code 73060

CPT 73060 describes the radiologic examination of the humerus, requiring a minimum of two views. 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 73060?

CPT 73060 is used to describe the radiologic examination of the humerus, specifically requiring a minimum of two views. This code is used when an X-ray of the humerus is performed to assess injury, fracture, arthritis, bone spurs, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. The X-ray focuses on the specific area that is injured or damaged, providing valuable diagnostic information.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73060 is: ‘Radiologic examination; humerus, minimum of two views.’

3. Procedure

1. The radiologic technician performs the procedure.
2. The extremity (arm) is put into a stable position.
3. The technician performs the X-ray of the humerus from different views and positions, such as AP, lateral, frontal, transverse, cross table, standing, or swimmer.
4. A minimum of two views of the humerus are obtained to provide a comprehensive assessment.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73060 is used when there is a need to evaluate the humerus for various conditions, including injury, fracture, arthritis, bone spurs, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. The procedure is performed by a radiologic technician, and a minimum of two views of the humerus are obtained to ensure a thorough examination.

5. When to use CPT code 73060

CPT code 73060 should be used when a radiologic examination of the humerus is required, specifically with a minimum of two views. It is appropriate to bill this code when assessing for injury, fracture, arthritis, bone spurs, tumors, or congenital abnormalities in the humerus. However, it should not be used for examinations of other extremities or body parts.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73060, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the radiologic examination of the humerus
• Specific views obtained (minimum of two)
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as comparison with unaffected sites
• Signature of the radiologic technician performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73060, ensure that the procedure involves a radiologic examination of the humerus with a minimum of two views. It should not be reported with other codes unless there are additional procedures or services performed during the same encounter. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and accurately document the procedure to support the billing claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 73060 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There was a code change on January 1, 2009, which updated the description to specify a minimum of two views for the radiologic examination of the humerus.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a suspected humerus fracture after a fall. The radiologic technician performs an X-ray of the humerus, obtaining two views to assess the extent of the injury.
2. A patient with chronic shoulder pain undergoes a radiologic examination of the humerus to evaluate for any underlying abnormalities or conditions contributing to the pain. The technician obtains two views to provide a comprehensive assessment.
3. A professional athlete experiences trauma to the arm during a game. The radiologic technician performs an X-ray of the humerus, obtaining two views to assess for any fractures or other injuries.
4. A patient with a history of bone tumors undergoes a routine radiologic examination of the humerus to monitor the progression of the condition. The technician obtains two views to compare with previous imaging studies.
5. A child with a congenital abnormality in the arm undergoes a radiologic examination of the humerus to assess the extent of the anomaly. The technician obtains two views to provide a detailed evaluation.