How To Use CPT Code 73225

CPT 73225 describes the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) for the upper extremity. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 73225?

CPT 73225 is used to describe the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) for the upper extremity. This procedure involves using magnetic fields and radio waves to visualize the blood vessels in the upper extremity and evaluate them for stenosis or aneurysm. The provider may use contrast material during the procedure to enhance the images.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73225 is: ‘Magnetic resonance angiography, upper extremity, with or without contrast material(s).’ This code is used to report the MRA of the blood vessels in the upper extremity, including the arteries and veins.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the MRI table, with their upper extremity inside the magnetic scanner.
2. The provider may administer contrast material intravenously to enhance the images.
3. The MRI machine generates a series of images that display the vascular structures of the upper extremity.
4. The provider reviews the images, analyzes them, and interprets the results.
5. A written report is prepared by the provider, documenting their findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73225 is used for patients who require evaluation of the blood vessels in the upper extremity for stenosis or aneurysm. This procedure is typically performed when there are symptoms or indications of vascular abnormalities in the upper extremity. The use of contrast material may be necessary to enhance the visibility of the blood vessels during the MRA.

5. When to use CPT code 73225

CPT code 73225 should be used when a provider performs a magnetic resonance angiography of the upper extremity to evaluate the blood vessels for stenosis or aneurysm. This code is appropriate when the procedure is performed with or without the use of contrast material. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure and the need for evaluation of the upper extremity blood vessels.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73225, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the MRA of the upper extremity
• Whether contrast material was used or not
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including any specific findings or abnormalities
• Interpretation and analysis of the images
• Written report of the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73225, it is important to ensure that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure and the use of contrast material if applicable. If only the physician’s interpretation is being reported, append modifier 26 to the CPT code. If only the technical component is being reported, append modifier TC to the CPT code. However, it is important to check payer policies as hospitals may be exempt from appending modifier TC. Additionally, providers may separately report the contrast material using appropriate supply codes or HCPCS Level II codes, depending on payer guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 73225 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography of the upper extremity to evaluate the blood vessels for stenosis. The procedure is performed without the use of contrast material.
2. A provider performs a magnetic resonance angiography of the upper extremity with contrast material to assess the blood vessels for aneurysm. The procedure reveals an aneurysm in one of the arteries.
3. An individual presents with symptoms of reduced blood flow in the upper extremity. A magnetic resonance angiography is performed to evaluate the blood vessels for stenosis or blockage.
4. A patient with a history of vascular abnormalities undergoes a routine magnetic resonance angiography of the upper extremity to monitor the condition of the blood vessels.
5. A provider performs a magnetic resonance angiography of the upper extremity with contrast material to assess the blood vessels for both stenosis and aneurysm. The procedure reveals no abnormalities.
6. An individual experiences recurring pain in the upper extremity. A magnetic resonance angiography is performed to investigate the cause of the pain.
7. A patient with a suspected aneurysm in the upper extremity undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and location of the aneurysm.
8. A provider performs a magnetic resonance angiography of the upper extremity without contrast material to evaluate the blood vessels for stenosis in a patient with a known vascular disease.
9. An individual with a history of trauma to the upper extremity undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography to assess the blood vessels for any damage or abnormalities.
10. A patient with a suspected blood clot in the upper extremity undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography to visualize the blood vessels and confirm the presence of a clot.