How To Use CPT Code 73702

CPT 73702 describes the diagnostic radiology procedure of a computed tomography (CT) scan of the lower extremity. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 73702?

CPT 73702 is used to report a specific diagnostic radiology procedure known as a computed tomography (CT) scan of the lower extremity. This procedure involves the use of X-rays and a rotating X-ray tube and detectors to produce cross-sectional images of the lower extremity. It is performed to diagnose and manage various conditions and diseases affecting the lower extremity, such as fractures or other abnormalities.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73702 is: ‘Computed tomography, lower extremity; without contrast material, followed by contrast material(s) and further sections.’ This code represents the technical and professional components of the service, including the administration of contrast material and the acquisition of images before and after the injection.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the CT scanner table, and the provider initiates the procedure.
2. The provider may administer contrast material intravenously to enhance the visibility of internal structures or organs of the lower extremity.
3. The CT scanner rotates around the patient’s body, taking pictures of the lower extremity from different angles.
4. The images are displayed on a monitor screen, and the provider reviews and analyzes them to make a diagnosis or assess the condition.
5. The provider prepares a report summarizing their findings and interpretations of the CT scan.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73702 is typically performed when there is a suspected fracture or disease affecting the lower extremity that requires diagnostic imaging for accurate diagnosis and management. The use of contrast material may be necessary to improve the visibility of specific structures or organs. Providers who perform this procedure should have the necessary expertise and training in radiology and CT imaging.

5. When to use CPT code 73702

CPT code 73702 should be used when a CT scan of the lower extremity is performed without contrast material initially, followed by the administration of contrast material for further sections. This code is appropriate for diagnostic purposes and should be reported when the provider performs the complete procedure as described in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73702, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the CT scan and the medical necessity
• Details of the procedure, including the use of contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Specific findings and interpretations of the CT scan
• Preparation of a comprehensive report summarizing the results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73702, ensure that the procedure is performed as described in the official description. If only the physician’s interpretation is being reported, append modifier 26 to the radiology code. If only the technical component is being reported, append modifier TC to the radiology code. However, it is important to note that payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. When reporting a global service where one provider performs both the professional and technical components, do not append any modifiers to the radiology code.

8. Historical information

CPT 73702 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990, with a code change on January 1, 2003. There have been no further updates or changes to the code since then.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with severe pain in their lower leg after a fall. The provider performs a CT scan of the lower extremity without contrast material initially, followed by contrast material(s) and further sections to assess for any fractures or other injuries.
2. A patient with a history of peripheral artery disease experiences worsening symptoms in their lower extremity. The provider orders a CT scan to evaluate the blood flow and identify any blockages or abnormalities.
3. A patient with a suspected tumor in their lower leg undergoes a CT scan without contrast material initially, followed by contrast material(s) and further sections to visualize the tumor and determine its characteristics.
4. A patient with chronic pain in their hip and thigh undergoes a CT scan of the lower extremity to assess for any underlying musculoskeletal abnormalities or joint degeneration.
5. A patient with a history of deep vein thrombosis presents with swelling and discoloration in their lower leg. The provider orders a CT scan to evaluate the blood vessels and identify any potential blood clots.