How To Use CPT Code 74742

CPT 74742 describes the transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube, which is a radiological procedure used to diagnose blockages or reestablish patency. 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 74742?

CPT 74742 is a code used to describe the transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube. This procedure involves the insertion of a catheter through the hysteroscope, which is inserted through the external cervix and into the uterus. The physician then injects dye into the fallopian tube to identify any obstructions or blockages. If necessary, the physician may use additional techniques, such as inserting a wire through the catheter, to open up the tube. The procedure allows for the diagnosis of any issues with the fallopian tube and helps in determining the appropriate treatment.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 74742 is: ‘Transcervical catheterization of fallopian tube, radiological supervision and interpretation.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is placed on a fluoroscopic table.
2. The physician inserts a hysteroscope through the external cervix and into the uterus.
3. A catheter is inserted through the hysteroscope and dye is injected into the fallopian tube to identify any obstructions.
4. If obstructions are found, the physician may use additional techniques, such as inserting a wire through the catheter, to open up the tube.
5. The physician withdraws the catheter and interprets the findings of the catheterization.
6. A report is prepared based on the findings of the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 74742 is performed when there is a need to diagnose any blockages or obstructions in the fallopian tube. This procedure is typically performed by a physician and requires radiological supervision and interpretation. It is important to note that this code specifically describes the radiological aspect of the procedure and should not be used for other types of catheterization or interventions.

5. When to use CPT code 74742

CPT code 74742 should be used when a physician performs the transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube under radiological supervision and interpretation. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure does not involve radiological supervision and interpretation, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 74742, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the procedure and the need for fallopian tube catheterization
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a hysteroscope and catheter
• Injection of dye into the fallopian tube and any additional techniques used
• Interpretation of the findings and preparation of a report

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 74742, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. Modifier 26 should not be applied to this code, as it is for radiological supervision and interpretation. If reporting only the technical component, modifier TC may be appended to the radiology code. However, payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. It is important to follow the specific guidelines of the payer when reporting this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 74742 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A physician performs transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to diagnose a blockage in a patient with infertility issues.
2. A radiologist provides radiological supervision and interpretation for the transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to identify any obstructions in a patient with recurrent ectopic pregnancies.
3. A gynecologist performs transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to reestablish patency in a patient with a history of tubal ligation.
4. A fertility specialist uses transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes in a patient undergoing in vitro fertilization.
5. A reproductive endocrinologist performs transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to diagnose any blockages in a patient with unexplained infertility.
6. A radiologist provides radiological supervision and interpretation for the transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to evaluate the fallopian tubes in a patient with pelvic pain.
7. A gynecologist performs transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes in a patient with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease.
8. A reproductive endocrinologist uses transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to diagnose any obstructions in a patient with a history of recurrent miscarriages.
9. A radiologist provides radiological supervision and interpretation for the transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to evaluate the fallopian tubes in a patient with suspected tubal factor infertility.
10. A gynecologist performs transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tube to reestablish patency in a patient with a history of tubal blockage.