How To Use CPT Code 73525

CPT 73525 describes the radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography, with the provider performing imaging supervision and interpretation. 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 73525?

CPT 73525 is used to represent the radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography, with the provider performing imaging supervision and interpretation. This procedure involves injecting contrast material into the hip joint and taking a series of X-rays to evaluate the different structures of the joint. It is important to note that CPT code 73525 should not be reported in conjunction with code 77002.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73525 is: ‘Radiologic examination, hip, arthrography, radiological supervision and interpretation.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the provider inserts a needle under fluoroscopic guidance to inject contrast material into the hip joint.
2. The provider observes the flow of the contrast material under fluoroscopy and takes a series of X-rays of the hip from various angles.
3. The provider performs imaging supervision and interpretation for the procedure, analyzing the X-ray images to evaluate the structures of the hip joint.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73525 is typically performed when a patient requires a radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography. This procedure is used to visualize and evaluate the structures of the hip joint. It is important to note that CPT code 73525 should not be reported in conjunction with code 77002.

5. When to use CPT code 73525

CPT code 73525 should be used when a provider performs the radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography and also provides the imaging supervision and interpretation for the procedure. It is important to note that CPT code 73525 should not be reported in conjunction with code 77002.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 73525, the provider must document the following information:

• Details of the radiologic examination, including the use of arthrography and the specific structures evaluated
• Date and time of the procedure
• Fluoroscopic guidance used during the injection of contrast material
• Number and angles of X-ray images taken
• Findings and interpretation of the X-ray images
• Signature of the provider performing the imaging supervision and interpretation

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 73525, ensure that the provider performs both the imaging supervision and interpretation for the radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography. It is important to note that CPT code 73525 should not be reported in conjunction with code 77002. Providers should also follow any additional guidelines provided by payers regarding the appropriate use and reporting of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 73525 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography, with the provider performing imaging supervision and interpretation to evaluate a suspected labral tear.
2. A provider performs the radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography, with imaging supervision and interpretation, to assess the extent of a hip joint infection in a patient with symptoms of septic arthritis.
3. A patient with chronic hip pain undergoes a radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography, with the provider performing imaging supervision and interpretation, to identify any abnormalities or structural damage.
4. A provider performs the radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography, with imaging supervision and interpretation, to evaluate a patient with a history of hip dislocation for any signs of recurrent instability.
5. A patient with hip joint stiffness and limited range of motion undergoes a radiologic examination of the hip joint using arthrography, with the provider performing imaging supervision and interpretation, to assess the presence of any intra-articular adhesions or joint capsule contractures.