How To Use CPT Code 76390

CPT 76390 describes the use of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) as a diagnostic imaging technique to detect and identify the chemical composition of diseased tissue and structures, or to study the metabolism of organs. 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 76390?

CPT 76390 is used to describe the utilization of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) as a diagnostic imaging technique. Unlike conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), MRS focuses on monitoring and measuring body chemistry, such as metabolism, rather than visualizing body structures. It is a valuable tool for determining various brain disorders, assessing tumor malignancy, and evaluating metabolic disorders of the muscles and nervous system.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76390 is: ‘Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), diagnostic; each study.’

3. Procedure

1. After appropriate patient preparation and positioning on a movable table, the healthcare provider identifies the area of abnormality or region of interest.
2. A special antenna or coil is placed over or around the area to be imaged.
3. The table is then moved into the magnetic field, and images are taken.
4. Contrast may be injected to enhance the images, if necessary.
5. The provider creates and analyzes the MRS graph or spectrum, which displays the types and quantity of chemicals in the brain or other organs.
6. The results are compared with normal spectra and abnormal patterns for interpretation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76390 is used when a healthcare provider performs magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to detect and identify the chemical composition of diseased tissue or structures, or to study the metabolism of organs. This diagnostic imaging technique is typically employed for the evaluation of brain disorders, tumor malignancy, and metabolic disorders of the muscles and nervous system.

5. When to use CPT code 76390

CPT code 76390 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a diagnostic study using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). It is important to note that MRS is distinct from conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as it focuses on measuring body chemistry rather than visualizing body structures. Therefore, CPT 76390 is appropriate when MRS is utilized as a standalone diagnostic tool.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76390, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the MRS study and the specific area of interest
• Details of patient preparation and positioning
• Use of contrast, if applicable
• Creation and analysis of the MRS graph or spectrum
• Comparison of results with normal spectra and abnormal patterns
• Interpretation of the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76390, ensure that the healthcare provider performs a standalone diagnostic study using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). It is important to distinguish MRS from conventional MRI procedures. If both an MRI and MRS are performed, report both the appropriate MRI code and CPT code 76390. It is also crucial to check payer coverage for MRS services.

8. Historical information

CPT code 76390 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1998. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to assess the metabolic activity of a brain tumor.
2. MRS is utilized to evaluate the severity of a patient’s muscle metabolic disorder.
3. A diagnostic study using MRS is conducted to determine the chemical composition of a diseased organ.
4. MRS is employed to monitor the metabolism of a patient’s nervous system.
5. A healthcare provider uses MRS to study the metabolic changes in a patient’s brain associated with a specific disorder.
6. MRS is performed to assess the malignancy of a tumor by analyzing its chemical composition.
7. A diagnostic study utilizing MRS is conducted to evaluate the metabolic abnormalities in a patient’s muscles.
8. MRS is employed to monitor the metabolic changes in a patient’s brain during a specific treatment.
9. A healthcare provider uses MRS to study the metabolic activity of a patient’s nervous system in relation to a particular condition.
10. MRS is performed to assess the chemical composition of a diseased organ and guide further treatment decisions.