How To Use CPT Code 74712

CPT 74712 describes the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the unborn baby and identify any abnormalities in its development. 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 74712?

CPT 74712 is used to describe the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the unborn baby and identify any abnormalities in its development. This code applies to the first gestation or a single fetus.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 74712 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, fetal, including placental and maternal pelvic imaging when performed; single or first gestation.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the patient is placed on a scanning table that slides into a large tunnel-shaped magnetic scanner.
2. The patient is instructed to hold their breath and remain still for 10 to 15 seconds while the machine takes images.
3. The magnetic field produced by the MRI temporarily realigns the hydrogen atoms in the body, which generates radiofrequency signals.
4. A computer receives these signals, analyzes them, and converts them into three-dimensional digital images that display the baby’s development.
5. The provider may also choose to image the placenta and maternal pelvis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 74712 is used when performing MRI on an unborn baby to examine its structure and identify any abnormalities related to its development. This code applies to the first gestation or a single fetus.

5. When to use CPT code 74712

CPT code 74712 should be used when performing MRI on an unborn baby to examine its structure and identify any abnormalities related to its development. This code applies to the first gestation or a single fetus.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 74712, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the MRI on the unborn baby
• Details of the MRI procedure, including any additional imaging of the placenta and maternal pelvis
• Date and time of the procedure
• Findings and any abnormalities identified
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 74712, ensure that the MRI is performed on an unborn baby to examine its structure and identify any abnormalities related to its development. This code applies to the first gestation or a single fetus. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 74712 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 74712 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2016. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performing an MRI on an unborn baby to examine its brain development and identify any abnormalities.
2. An MRI technician imaging the placenta and maternal pelvis during an MRI of an unborn baby to assess its overall development.
3. A radiologist using MRI to examine the structure of the heart in an unborn baby and detect any cardiac abnormalities.
4. A provider performing an MRI on an unborn baby to assess its skeletal development and identify any bone abnormalities.
5. An obstetrician ordering an MRI to examine the kidneys of an unborn baby and identify any renal abnormalities.
6. A provider using MRI to assess the growth and development of the lungs in an unborn baby and detect any pulmonary abnormalities.
7. An MRI technician imaging the placenta and maternal pelvis during an MRI of an unborn baby to evaluate the blood flow and detect any abnormalities.
8. A radiologist performing an MRI on an unborn baby to assess the development of the digestive system and identify any gastrointestinal abnormalities.
9. A provider using MRI to examine the structure of the spine in an unborn baby and detect any spinal abnormalities.
10. An obstetrician ordering an MRI to assess the development of the reproductive organs in an unborn baby and identify any abnormalities.