How To Use CPT Code 73219

CPT 73219 describes the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the upper extremity, excluding the joints, with the administration of contrast material. 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 73219?

CPT 73219 is used to describe the diagnostic procedure of performing an MRI on the upper extremity, excluding the joints, with the use of contrast material. This code is specifically for locations other than the joints of the extremity.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73219 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, upper extremity, other than joint; with contrast material(s).’ This code is used when an MRI is performed on the upper extremity, excluding the joints, with the administration of contrast material.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the scanning table and inserted into the MRI machine, which creates a strong magnetic field.
2. The provider instructs the patient to hold their breath and remain still while the images are taken.
3. Contrast material is administered to the patient to enhance the visibility of internal structures or organs.
4. The MRI machine captures radiofrequency signals generated by the body, creating a series of images that display slices of the patient’s upper extremity.
5. The provider reviews the images, analyzes the results, and prepares a written report of their findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73219 is used for patients who require an MRI of the upper extremity, excluding the joints, with the use of contrast material. This procedure may be necessary to evaluate specific conditions or injuries in the upper extremity, such as tumors, infections, or vascular abnormalities.

5. When to use CPT code 73219

CPT code 73219 should be used when an MRI is performed on the upper extremity, excluding the joints, and contrast material is administered to enhance the visibility of internal structures or organs. It is important to note that this code is not appropriate for MRI examinations of the joints or for procedures performed without the use of contrast material.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73219, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the MRI and the medical necessity of using contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the contrast material administered
• Interpretation and analysis of the MRI images
• Written report of the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73219, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of contrast material should be clearly documented and justified. Additionally, modifiers may be required to indicate the professional or technical component of the service, depending on the billing arrangement and payer guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 73219 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes an MRI of the upper extremity, excluding the joints, with the administration of contrast material to evaluate a suspected tumor.
2. An athlete receives an MRI of the upper extremity, excluding the joints, with contrast to assess a potential ligament tear.
3. A patient with a suspected infection in the upper extremity undergoes an MRI with contrast to aid in diagnosis.
4. A patient with a vascular abnormality in the upper extremity undergoes an MRI with contrast to evaluate the extent of the condition.
5. A trauma patient receives an MRI of the upper extremity, excluding the joints, with contrast to assess potential internal injuries.