How To Use CPT Code 73206

CPT 73206 describes the procedure of computed tomographic angiography (CTA) for the upper extremity. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 73206?

CPT 73206 can be used to describe the diagnostic radiology procedure of computed tomographic angiography (CTA) for the upper extremity. This code is used when a provider performs a CT scan of the blood vessels in the upper extremity using contrast material and may also include noncontrast images. The images are then processed using computerized techniques to select the most relevant views for analysis and interpretation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73206 is: ‘Computed tomographic angiography, upper extremity, with contrast material(s), including noncontrast images, if performed, and image postprocessing.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider positions the patient on the CT scanner table and inserts an intravenous (IV) line for contrast administration.
2. The provider supervises the administration of the IV contrast and performs scout films or preliminary images.
3. The provider acquires the actual images of the upper extremity using the CT scanner, which moves around the patient’s body.
4. Noncontrast images may also be taken, depending on the situation.
5. A technician performs post-processing image reconstruction under the provider’s supervision.
6. The provider reviews the images, analyzes them, and interprets the results.
7. A report of the findings is prepared by the provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73206 is performed for diagnostic purposes to evaluate the blood vessels in the upper extremity. It is typically used to diagnose, manage, and treat conditions such as aneurysms or blood clots. The use of contrast material is necessary for this procedure, and the contrast must be intravascular, intraarticular, or intrathecal. Providers who supply the contrast may separately report it using appropriate supply codes.

5. When to use CPT code 73206

CPT code 73206 should be used when a provider performs a computed tomographic angiography (CTA) of the upper extremity with contrast material and includes noncontrast images, if performed. This code is appropriate for diagnostic purposes to evaluate the blood vessels in the upper extremity. It should not be used for other body parts or if contrast material is not used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73206, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure and medical necessity
• Details of the contrast material used, including route of administration
• Date and time of the procedure
• Specific images acquired, including noncontrast images if performed
• Analysis and interpretation of the images
• Report of the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73206, ensure that the procedure is performed for the upper extremity and includes the use of contrast material and noncontrast images, if performed. Providers should append modifier 26 to the radiology code if reporting only the physician’s interpretation. Modifier TC should be appended if reporting only the technical component. However, payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. Providers should also consider reporting separately for the contrast material, if applicable, using appropriate supply codes or HCPCS Level II codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 73206 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. On January 1, 2008, there was a code change that modified the description of the procedure.

9. Examples

1. A radiologist performing a computed tomographic angiography of the upper extremity with contrast material to evaluate a patient with suspected blood clot.
2. A vascular surgeon using CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material and noncontrast images to assess the extent of an aneurysm in a patient.
3. An interventional radiologist performing a CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material to guide the placement of a stent in a patient with arterial blockage.
4. A cardiologist using CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material and noncontrast images to evaluate the blood vessels in a patient with suspected vascular disease.
5. An orthopedic surgeon requesting a CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material to assess the blood supply to a fractured bone in a patient.
6. A radiologist performing a CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material and noncontrast images to evaluate a patient with suspected vasculitis.
7. A vascular surgeon using CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material to assess the patency of a bypass graft in a patient.
8. An interventional radiologist performing a CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material and noncontrast images to evaluate a patient with chronic pain and suspected arterial insufficiency.
9. A cardiologist using CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material to assess the blood flow in a patient with a history of heart disease.
10. An orthopedic surgeon requesting a CTA of the upper extremity with contrast material and noncontrast images to evaluate the blood vessels in a patient with a suspected tumor.