How To Use CPT Code 73721

CPT 73721 describes the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without contrast material for any joint 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 73721?

CPT 73721 is used to describe the diagnostic procedure of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without contrast material for any joint of the lower extremity. This code is specifically used when the provider performs an MRI scan of a joint in the lower extremity without the use of contrast material.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 73721 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, any joint of lower extremity; without contrast material.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the scanning table, and the lower extremities are placed inside a large tunnel-shaped magnetic scanner.
2. The patient is instructed to hold their breath and remain still while the machine takes images of the specific joint(s) in the lower extremity.
3. The MRI machine captures radiofrequency signals generated by the body, and a computer generates a series of images displaying slices of the leg, focusing on the targeted joint(s).
4. The radiology provider reviews the images, performs a diagnostic interpretation, and prepares a written report of their findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 73721 is used for patients who require diagnostic MRI imaging of a joint in the lower extremity without the use of contrast material. This procedure is typically performed to diagnose, manage, and treat diseases or conditions affecting the joints of the lower extremity.

5. When to use CPT code 73721

CPT code 73721 should be used when a provider performs an MRI scan of a joint in the lower extremity without the use of contrast material. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the necessity of the procedure and that the specific joint(s) being imaged are clearly indicated.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 73721, the following documentation is required:

• Indication of the specific joint(s) being imaged
• Documentation of the absence of contrast material used
• Written report of the radiology provider’s findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 73721, ensure that the procedure performed is an MRI scan of a joint in the lower extremity without the use of contrast material. It is important to follow payer-specific guidelines for reporting bilateral procedures and the appropriate use of modifiers.

8. Historical information

CPT 73721 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes an MRI scan of their knee joint without the use of contrast material to evaluate a suspected ligament tear.
2. An athlete receives an MRI scan of their ankle joint without contrast to assess the extent of a sprain.
3. A patient with hip pain undergoes an MRI scan of their hip joint without the use of contrast material to identify any abnormalities.
4. A patient with chronic knee pain undergoes an MRI scan of their knee joint without contrast to evaluate for signs of arthritis.
5. A patient with foot discomfort undergoes an MRI scan of their foot joint without the use of contrast material to assess for any structural abnormalities.