How To Use CPT Code 76380

CPT 76380 describes the procedure for a limited or localized follow-up study using computed tomography (CT). This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 76380?

CPT 76380 is used to describe a specific type of CT procedure known as a limited or localized follow-up study. This noninvasive technique is performed when a provider needs to reexamine a patient for suspected complications or the presence of a tumor in a specific area of the body.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76380 is: ‘Computed tomography, limited or localized follow-up study.’

3. Procedure

1. After appropriate patient preparation, the patient is positioned on a movable table.
2. The table is then slid into a CT scanner, which is a large donut-shaped machine.
3. The CT scanner rotates around the patient, taking multiple X-ray images of the specific location or suspect structure.
4. These images are then processed by a computer to create a three-dimensional image of the inside of the body.
5. The resulting image is displayed on a monitor for interpretation by the provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76380 is used when a provider needs to perform a limited or localized follow-up study using CT. This may be necessary when there are concerns about complications or the presence of a tumor in a specific area of the body. The procedure is typically ordered by a provider based on the patient’s symptoms or previous imaging findings.

5. When to use CPT code 76380

CPT code 76380 should be used when a limited or localized follow-up study using CT is performed. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with other CT, CT angiography, or CT guidance codes for the same service. If a patient has a CT in the morning and then requires a follow-up CT later in the day, CPT 76380 should be used for the follow-up study.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76380, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the limited or localized follow-up study
• Specific area or structure being imaged
• Date and time of the procedure
• Interpretation of the CT images
• Signature of the interpreting provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76380, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a limited or localized follow-up study using CT. This code should not be reported with other CT codes for the same service. If only the physician’s interpretation is being reported, modifier 26 should be appended to the radiology code. If only the technical component is being reported, modifier TC should be appended. However, payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC.

8. Historical information

CPT 76380 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1992. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a limited follow-up CT study of the abdomen/pelvis to monitor the progression of a known tumor.
2. A provider orders a localized follow-up CT study of the brain to assess the effectiveness of a recent treatment for a neurological condition.
3. A patient requires a limited follow-up CT study of the chest to evaluate potential complications following a recent surgery.
4. A provider performs a localized follow-up CT study of the spine to assess the healing progress of a previously identified injury.
5. A limited follow-up CT study of the extremities is performed to monitor the response to a specific treatment for a musculoskeletal condition.
6. A provider orders a localized follow-up CT study of the head and neck to investigate the cause of persistent symptoms in a patient.
7. A patient undergoes a limited follow-up CT study of the abdomen to assess the effectiveness of a recent medication for a gastrointestinal condition.
8. A provider performs a localized follow-up CT study of the pelvis to evaluate potential complications following a recent procedure.
9. A limited follow-up CT study of the chest is performed to monitor the progression of a known lung disease in a patient.
10. A provider orders a localized follow-up CT study of the abdomen/pelvis to investigate the cause of persistent pain in a patient.