How To Use CPT Code 73503

CPT 73503 describes the radiologic examination of the hip, specifically the unilateral hip, with the inclusion of the pelvis if performed. This article will provide an overview of the code, including its official description, the procedure involved, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes, and examples of when CPT 73503 may be used.

1. What is CPT Code 73503?

CPT 73503 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the hip, focusing on one side only. This procedure involves taking a minimum of four X-ray images from different angles or projections to assess the hip for potential fractures, swelling, or other causes of hip pain. If necessary, the examination may also include the pelvis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73503 is: ‘Radiologic examination, hip, unilateral, with pelvis when performed; minimum of 4 views.’

3. Procedure

1. Position the patient on an X-ray table.
2. Take a minimum of four X-ray images of the hip from various projections.
3. If necessary, include the pelvis in the examination.
4. Ensure that each view taken is clearly documented by the provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73503 is appropriate when a radiologic examination of the hip is required to assess potential issues such as fractures, swelling, or hip pain. The procedure focuses on one side of the hip only and may include the pelvis if necessary.

5. When to use CPT code 73503

CPT code 73503 should be used when a minimum of four X-ray views of the unilateral hip, with or without the pelvis, are taken to evaluate potential conditions or injuries. It is important to note that this code is specific to the examination of one side of the hip only.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73503, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the examination, such as hip pain or suspected fracture
• Number and specific projections of the X-ray views taken
• Whether the pelvis was included in the examination
• Any additional relevant findings or observations
• Signature of the provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73503, ensure that the examination focuses on the unilateral hip and includes a minimum of four X-ray views. If the provider only interprets the radiology service, append modifier 26 to the code. If only the technical component is reported, append modifier TC. However, it is important to review payer policies as hospitals may be exempt from appending modifier TC. If the provider renders both the professional and technical components, do not append any modifiers.

8. Historical information

CPT 73503 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2016. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with hip pain, and the provider performs a radiologic examination of the unilateral hip, taking a minimum of four X-ray views to assess for potential fractures or other causes of pain.
2. A patient is involved in a car accident and complains of hip discomfort. The provider conducts a radiologic examination of the unilateral hip, including the pelvis, to evaluate for any injuries or abnormalities.
3. A professional athlete undergoes a routine radiologic examination of the unilateral hip to monitor for any signs of stress fractures or other sports-related injuries.
4. An elderly patient with a history of osteoporosis undergoes a radiologic examination of the unilateral hip to assess for potential fractures or bone density loss.
5. A patient with a known hip injury undergoes a follow-up radiologic examination of the unilateral hip to evaluate the healing progress and ensure no further complications.