How To Use CPT Code 73090

CPT 73090 describes the radiologic examination of the forearm, specifically taking two X-ray views to assess for fractures, swelling, or any other causes of pain in the forearm area. 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 73090?

CPT 73090 is used to describe the radiologic examination of the forearm. It involves taking two X-ray views of the forearm to evaluate for any fractures, swelling, or reasons for pain in that area. The X-ray machine emits a small amount of radiation, which passes through the forearm and creates images on special film. The resulting images show the bones of the forearm, including the radius and ulna.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73090 is: ‘Radiologic examination; forearm, 2 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider positions the patient’s forearm appropriately for the X-ray examination.
2. The X-ray machine emits a small amount of radiation, which passes through the forearm.
3. The radiation is recorded on special film, creating two X-ray views of the forearm.
4. The resulting images show the bones of the forearm, including the radius and ulna.
5. The healthcare provider reviews the images to assess for any fractures, swelling, or other abnormalities in the forearm area.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73090 is typically performed when a patient presents with symptoms such as forearm pain, swelling, or suspected fractures. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the radiologic examination of the forearm and does not include any additional procedures or treatments. The healthcare provider must determine the medical necessity of the examination based on the patient’s symptoms and clinical presentation.

5. When to use CPT code 73090

CPT code 73090 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the forearm, taking two X-ray views to assess for fractures, swelling, or other causes of pain in the forearm area. It is important to ensure that the documentation clearly describes each view taken during the examination to accurately report the number of views performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73090, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the examination, such as forearm pain, swelling, or suspected fractures
• Number and type of views taken during the examination
• Date and time of the examination
• Any findings or abnormalities observed in the images
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73090, it is important to ensure that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the examination. If only the physician’s interpretation of the radiology service is being reported, the professional component modifier 26 should be appended to the radiology code. If only the technical component is being reported, modifier TC should be appended to the radiology code. However, it is important to review payer policies, as hospitals may be exempt from appending modifier TC. If one provider renders both the professional and technical components of the service, no modifier should be appended to the radiology code. It is also crucial to accurately describe each view taken during the examination to report the correct number of views.

8. Historical information

CPT 73090 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. Since then, there have been two code changes. On January 1, 2001, the code description was changed to ‘Radiologic examination; forearm, anteroposterior and lateral views.’ Then, on January 1, 2009, the code description was changed to ‘Radiologic examination; forearm, two views.’

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with forearm pain after a fall. The healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the forearm, taking two X-ray views to assess for any fractures or other causes of pain.
2. A patient complains of swelling in their forearm. The healthcare provider orders a radiologic examination, taking two X-ray views to evaluate the extent of the swelling and identify any underlying causes.
3. A patient sustains an injury during sports and experiences forearm pain. The healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination, taking two X-ray views to assess for any fractures or other injuries in the forearm area.
4. A patient reports persistent forearm pain without any known cause. The healthcare provider orders a radiologic examination, taking two X-ray views to investigate the source of the pain and rule out any fractures or other abnormalities.
5. A patient presents with forearm pain and limited range of motion. The healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination, taking two X-ray views to assess for any fractures or joint abnormalities that may be causing the symptoms.