How To Use CPT Code 73521

CPT 73521 describes the radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views. 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 73521?

CPT 73521 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views. This code is used when the healthcare provider takes two X-ray images from different angles of both hip joints to assess for fractures, swelling, or other causes of hip pain. The examination may also include the pelvis if necessary.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73521 is: ‘Radiologic examination, hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed; 2 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on an X-ray table by the healthcare provider.
2. The provider takes two X-ray images of the right and left hip joints from different angles or projections.
3. If necessary, the provider may also include the pelvis in the examination.
4. The X-ray images are used to assess for fractures, swelling, or other causes of hip pain.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73521 is used when a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, is performed using two views. This procedure is typically done to evaluate hip pain or suspected hip joint abnormalities. It is important to note that the examination must include both hip joints and may include the pelvis if necessary.

5. When to use CPT code 73521

CPT code 73521 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views. This code is appropriate when the examination includes both hip joints and may include the pelvis if necessary. It is important to ensure that the documentation clearly describes each view taken and the patient’s body position during the examination.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73521, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Description of the radiologic examination performed
• Number of views taken
• Specific body position and projection of the X-ray images
• Indication for the examination, such as hip pain or suspected hip joint abnormalities
• Any additional findings or observations
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73521, ensure that the radiologic examination includes both hip joints and may include the pelvis if necessary. It is important to accurately report the number of views taken during the examination. If reporting only the physician’s interpretation, append modifier 26 to the radiology code. If reporting only the technical component, append modifier TC to the radiology code. However, be aware that payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. Do not append a professional or technical modifier when reporting a global service in which one provider renders both components.

8. Historical information

CPT 73521 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2016. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with hip pain, and the healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to assess for any fractures or abnormalities.
2. A patient with a history of hip joint abnormalities undergoes a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to monitor the progression of the condition.
3. A patient involved in a car accident complains of hip pain, and the healthcare provider orders a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to rule out any fractures or injuries.
4. A professional athlete undergoes a routine radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to assess the condition of the hip joints and detect any early signs of injury or degeneration.
5. A patient with a history of osteoporosis undergoes a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to assess bone density and detect any signs of hip joint deterioration.
6. A patient with a congenital hip abnormality undergoes a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to monitor the progression of the condition and assess the effectiveness of previous treatments.
7. A patient with a history of hip joint infections undergoes a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to assess for any signs of recurrent infection or complications.
8. A patient with hip pain and limited range of motion undergoes a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to identify any structural abnormalities or joint damage.
9. A patient with a suspected hip joint dislocation undergoes a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.
10. A patient with a history of hip joint surgeries undergoes a radiologic examination of the hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed, using two views to assess the integrity of the surgical repairs and identify any complications.