How To Use CPT Code 73120

CPT 73120 describes the radiologic examination of the hand using two views. 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 73120?

CPT 73120 can be used to describe the radiologic examination of the hand using two views. This code is used when an X-ray of the hand is performed to assess injuries, fractures, 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 73120 is: ‘Radiologic examination, hand; 2 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The radiologic technician performs the procedure.
2. The hand is positioned in a stable position for the X-ray.
3. The technician takes two views of the hand from different angles (AP, lateral, frontal, transverse, cross table, standing, swimmer, etc.).

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73120 is used when an X-ray of the hand is necessary to assess injuries, fractures, arthritis, bone spurs, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. The procedure is performed by a radiologic technician, and two views of the hand are taken to provide a comprehensive evaluation.

5. When to use CPT code 73120

CPT code 73120 should be used when a radiologic examination of the hand is required, and two views are taken to assess the specific condition or injury. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the need for the examination and the use of two views.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73120, the documentation should include:

• Indication for the radiologic examination of the hand
• Specific views taken (AP, lateral, frontal, transverse, cross table, standing, swimmer, etc.)
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the radiologic technician performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73120, ensure that the procedure involves the radiologic examination of the hand using two views. It is important to follow payer guidelines and any specific requirements for reporting modifiers or bundling with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 73120 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 presents with a suspected hand fracture, and the radiologic technician performs a radiologic examination of the hand using two views to assess the extent of the injury.
2. An individual with chronic hand pain undergoes a radiologic examination of the hand using two views to evaluate for arthritis or other underlying conditions.
3. A patient with a history of hand tumors requires a radiologic examination of the hand using two views to monitor the progression or regression of the tumors.
4. Following a hand injury, a radiologic examination of the hand using two views is performed to assess for any fractures or dislocations.
5. A patient with congenital hand abnormalities undergoes a radiologic examination of the hand using two views to evaluate the structure and alignment of the bones.
6. During a routine check-up, a radiologic examination of the hand using two views is performed to screen for any signs of early arthritis or degenerative changes.
7. A hand X-ray is ordered to assess the effectiveness of a treatment plan for a patient with a chronic hand condition, and two views are taken to provide a comprehensive evaluation.
8. A radiologic examination of the hand using two views is performed as part of a preoperative assessment for a patient undergoing hand surgery.
9. A patient with a suspected hand infection undergoes a radiologic examination of the hand using two views to assess for any signs of inflammation or abscess formation.
10. Following a hand trauma, a radiologic examination of the hand using two views is performed to rule out any fractures or other injuries that may require immediate intervention.