How To Use CPT Code 73620

CPT 73620 describes the radiologic examination of the foot, specifically taking two views of the foot to assess various conditions such as injuries, fractures, arthritis, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 73620?

CPT 73620 is used to describe a radiologic examination of the foot, where the provider takes two X-ray views of the patient’s foot to assess any potential conditions or abnormalities. This procedure is commonly performed to evaluate injuries, fractures, arthritis, tumors, or congenital abnormalities in the foot.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73620 is: ‘Radiologic examination, foot; 2 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider positions the patient’s foot in a stable position for the examination.
2. Using an X-ray machine, the provider takes two views of the foot, such as the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views.
3. The X-ray machine sends a beam of radiation through the foot, and a computer or special film records the resulting image.
4. The provider assesses the X-ray images to evaluate any injuries, fractures, arthritis, tumors, or congenital abnormalities in the foot.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73620 is typically performed when there is a need to assess the foot for potential conditions or abnormalities. This may include patients who have experienced foot injuries, fractures, or have symptoms of arthritis, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary training and expertise in radiologic examinations.

5. When to use CPT code 73620

CPT code 73620 should be used when a provider performs a radiologic examination of the foot, specifically taking two views of the foot. This code is appropriate when the provider needs to assess the foot for injuries, fractures, arthritis, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. It is important to note that CPT code 73620 is specifically for two views of the foot, and if additional views are required for a complete foot X-ray, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 73620, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the radiologic examination of the foot
• Specific views taken, such as anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views
• Date of the examination
• Any findings or abnormalities observed in the X-ray images
• Signature of the provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 73620, ensure that the provider has performed a radiologic examination of the foot, specifically taking two views. It is important to follow payer guidelines and any specific requirements for documentation and coding. If the provider is only interpreting the radiology service, modifier 26 should be appended to the code. If only the technical component is being reported, modifier TC should be appended. However, it is essential to review payer policies as hospitals may be exempt from appending modifier TC. If the provider is performing both the professional and technical components, no modifier is necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT code 73620 has undergone historical changes. It was initially added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990, and has since undergone code changes on January 1, 2001, and January 1, 2009.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with foot pain after a recent injury. The provider performs a radiologic examination of the foot, taking two views to assess for any fractures or other abnormalities.
2. A patient with a history of arthritis in the foot undergoes a radiologic examination, where the provider takes two views to evaluate the progression of the condition.
3. A patient with a suspected tumor in the foot undergoes a radiologic examination, with the provider taking two views to assess the presence and location of the tumor.
4. A newborn baby is born with a congenital abnormality in the foot. The provider performs a radiologic examination, taking two views to evaluate the extent of the abnormality.
5. A patient with chronic foot pain undergoes a radiologic examination, where the provider takes two views to assess for any underlying causes of the pain.