How To Use CPT Code 76120

CPT 76120 describes the procedure of cineradiography/videoradiography, which involves taking motion X-ray recordings to capture a series of individual images that appear as a motion picture when played back rapidly. 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 76120?

CPT 76120 is used to describe the procedure of cineradiography/videoradiography. This involves the use of a specialized X-ray camera to capture a series of images of an organ or system in motion. These images can be played back in rapid succession to diagnose various disorders and visualize the movement of the body, such as vocal cord movement, heart cycle, or dynamic motion of the spine or joints. It is important to note that cineradiography/videoradiography is not the same as fluoroscopy, although the terms may be similar.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76120 is: ‘Cineradiography/videoradiography, except where specifically included.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider uses a specialized X-ray camera to capture a series of images of an organ or system in motion.
2. The images are recorded digitally or on tape.
3. The recorded images can be played back in real time, slow motion, or one frame at a time.
4. The provider uses these images to diagnose various disorders and visualize the movement of the body.
5. The procedure can be used to assess biomechanics (movement) of the body, such as vocal cord movement, heart cycle, or dynamic motion of the spine or joints.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76120 is performed when the provider uses cineradiography/videoradiography as a standalone procedure to capture images of an organ or system in motion. It is important to note that there are separate codes for specific studies, such as swallowing studies or assessments of the pharynx or larynx. The use of modifiers may be necessary when reporting the professional or technical component of the radiology service.

5. When to use CPT code 76120

CPT code 76120 should be used when the provider performs cineradiography/videoradiography as a standalone procedure to capture images of an organ or system in motion. It should not be used when the procedure is performed as an adjunct to another procedure, in which case an add-on code should be reported.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76120, the provider must document the following information:

• Specific details of the cineradiography/videoradiography procedure performed
• Date and time of the procedure
• Images captured and their playback method (real time, slow motion, or one frame at a time)
• Diagnosis or reason for performing the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76120, ensure that the procedure is performed as a standalone service and not as an adjunct to another procedure. Modifiers may be necessary when reporting the professional or technical component of the radiology service. It is important to follow payer policies regarding the use of modifiers and the reporting of global services.

8. Historical information

CPT 76120 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 provider performs cineradiography/videoradiography to assess the movement of a patient’s vocal cords.
2. Cineradiography/videoradiography is used to visualize the dynamic motion of a patient’s spine during certain activities.
3. A provider uses cineradiography/videoradiography to capture images of a patient’s heart cycle for diagnostic purposes.
4. Cineradiography/videoradiography is performed to assess the movement of a patient’s joints during specific movements or exercises.
5. A provider uses cineradiography/videoradiography to visualize the movement of a patient’s diaphragm during breathing.
6. Cineradiography/videoradiography is performed to assess the movement of a patient’s gastrointestinal tract during digestion.
7. A provider uses cineradiography/videoradiography to capture images of a patient’s urinary system during voiding.
8. Cineradiography/videoradiography is performed to visualize the movement of a patient’s limbs during certain physical activities.
9. A provider uses cineradiography/videoradiography to assess the movement of a patient’s temporomandibular joint during jaw opening and closing.
10. Cineradiography/videoradiography is performed to visualize the movement of a patient’s eyes during certain eye movements or tracking tasks.