How To Use CPT Code 73701

CPT 73701 describes the use of computed tomography (CT) with contrast material to diagnose fractures or diseases of the lower extremity. 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 73701?

CPT 73701 can be used to describe the performance of a CT scan of the lower extremity using contrast material. This code is used when the provider rotates an X-ray tube and X-ray detectors around the patient to produce cross-sectional images of the lower extremity. The CT scan is performed to diagnose and manage fractures or diseases in this area.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73701 is: ‘Computed tomography, lower extremity; with contrast material(s).’ This code represents both the technical and professional components of the service.

3. Procedure

1. The provider positions the patient on the scanner table and administers sedation if necessary.
2. The provider injects contrast material into the patient’s vein in the upper extremity.
3. The provider instructs the patient to remain still during the procedure.
4. The scanner moves around the patient’s body, taking pictures of the lower extremity.
5. The provider obtains cross-sectional images of the lower extremity and reviews them on a monitor screen.
6. The provider analyzes the images and prepares a report of their findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73701 is performed on patients who require a CT scan of the lower extremity with contrast material. This procedure is used to diagnose fractures or diseases in this area. The provider must administer contrast material and interpret the images obtained during the scan.

5. When to use CPT code 73701

CPT code 73701 should be used when a provider performs a CT scan of the lower extremity with contrast material. This code is appropriate for diagnosing fractures or diseases in this area. It should not be used for CT scans without contrast or for CT scans of other body parts.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73701, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the CT scan and the need for contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Administration of sedation, if applicable
• Injection of contrast material
• Image acquisition and analysis
• Interpretation of the images
• Preparation of a report

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73701, ensure that the provider performs a CT scan of the lower extremity with contrast material. Use the appropriate modifiers if reporting only the professional or technical component of the service. Be aware of payer policies regarding the use of modifiers for hospital services. It is important to accurately report the service and any associated modifiers to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 73701 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change in description on January 1, 2003, from ‘Computerized axial tomography, lower extremity; with contrast material(s)’ to the current description.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a CT scan of their lower extremity with contrast material to diagnose a suspected fracture.
2. A provider performs a CT scan of a patient’s lower extremity with contrast material to evaluate a disease affecting this area.
3. A CT scan of the lower extremity with contrast material is performed on a patient to monitor the progression of a known condition.
4. A provider orders a CT scan of the lower extremity with contrast material to assess the effectiveness of a treatment for a specific disease.
5. A patient undergoes a CT scan of their lower extremity with contrast material as part of a preoperative evaluation for a surgical procedure.
6. A provider performs a CT scan of a patient’s lower extremity with contrast material to guide the placement of a medical device.
7. A CT scan of the lower extremity with contrast material is performed on a patient to investigate unexplained symptoms in this area.
8. A provider orders a CT scan of the lower extremity with contrast material to evaluate the response to a new medication for a specific disease.
9. A patient undergoes a CT scan of their lower extremity with contrast material to assess the healing progress of a previously diagnosed fracture.
10. A provider performs a CT scan of a patient’s lower extremity with contrast material to rule out the presence of a suspected disease.