How To Use CPT Code 77022

CPT 77022 describes the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance for locating and monitoring the ablation of parenchymal tissues. 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 77022?

CPT 77022 is used to report the use of MRI guidance for locating and monitoring the ablation of parenchymal tissues. This code specifically refers to the use of MRI to guide the provider in identifying the target organ or growth within the body and to monitor the ablation process. It should be noted that CPT 77022 is only used to report the MRI guidance and monitoring portion of the procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 77022 is: ‘Magnetic resonance imaging guidance for, and monitoring of, parenchymal tissue ablation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider uses MRI guidance to locate the parenchymal tissues within the body.
2. Once the target organ or growth is identified, the provider inserts a needle electrode through the skin and advances it to the targeted location using MRI guidance.
3. The provider then applies electric current through the needle electrode to ablate, or destroy, the cancerous or target tissue.
4. The MRI is used throughout the procedure to monitor the ablation process and ensure accurate targeting of the tissues.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 77022 is used when the provider performs MRI guidance for locating and monitoring the ablation of parenchymal tissues. This procedure is typically performed for the treatment of cancerous or other target tissues within the body. It is important to note that CPT 77022 should not be reported in conjunction with codes 20982, 20983, 32994, 32998, 0071T, 0072T, or 0600T. Additionally, for percutaneous ablation procedures, different codes should be used (such as 47382, 47383, 50592, or 50593).

5. When to use CPT code 77022

CPT code 77022 should be used when the provider utilizes MRI guidance to locate and monitor the ablation of parenchymal tissues. This code should only be reported for the MRI guidance and monitoring portion of the procedure. It is important to review the documentation and ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 77022, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure and the need for MRI guidance
• Description of the specific tissues or organs targeted for ablation
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Details of the MRI guidance and monitoring process
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 77022, it is important to ensure that the documentation supports the use of MRI guidance for locating and monitoring the ablation of parenchymal tissues. This code should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes, as specified in the notes. Additionally, if reporting only the physician’s interpretation for the radiology service, modifier 26 should be appended to the radiology code. If reporting only the technical component, modifier TC should be appended to the radiology code. However, it is important to review payer policies, as hospitals may be exempt from appending modifier TC. When reporting a global service in which one provider renders both the professional and technical components, no modifier should be appended to the radiology code.

8. Historical information

CPT 77022 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider uses MRI guidance to locate and monitor the ablation of parenchymal tissues in a patient with liver cancer.
2. During a procedure, the provider utilizes MRI guidance to target and ablate renal tumors in a patient.
3. A provider performs MRI-guided ablation of pulmonary tumors in a patient with lung cancer.
4. Using MRI guidance, the provider locates and monitors the ablation of parenchymal tissues in a patient with uterine leiomyomata.
5. In a procedure, the provider uses MRI guidance to target and ablate renal tumors in a patient, utilizing cryoablation techniques.