How To Use CPT Code 77047

CPT 77047 describes the procedure for obtaining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of both breasts without the use of contrast material. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 77047?

CPT 77047 can be used to describe the procedure for obtaining MRI images of both breasts without the use of contrast material. This code is used when a provider applies an external magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to create three-dimensional images of the breast. The images are then analyzed to investigate the anatomy of both breasts and detect any fibrosis or lesions.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 77047 is: ‘Magnetic resonance imaging, breast, without contrast material; bilateral.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider applies an external magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to the breasts.
2. The radiofrequency waves cause the hydrogen atoms in the body to release radio signals.
3. A computer receives the radio signals and converts them into three-dimensional images of the breasts.
4. The provider analyzes the images to investigate the anatomy of both breasts and detect any fibrosis or lesions.
5. The provider finalizes their findings and dictates a report based on the analysis of the images.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 77047 is used for patients who require MRI imaging of both breasts without the use of contrast material. This procedure is typically performed to investigate the anatomy of the breasts and detect any fibrosis or lesions. It is important to note that this code is specifically for bilateral breast MRI without contrast material.

5. When to use CPT code 77047

CPT code 77047 should be used when a provider performs MRI imaging of both breasts without the use of contrast material. This code is appropriate for cases where the provider needs to investigate the anatomy of both breasts and detect any fibrosis or lesions. It should not be used when contrast material is used during the procedure or when imaging is performed on only one breast.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 77047, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the MRI imaging of both breasts
• Details of the procedure, including the use of radiofrequency waves and the absence of contrast material
• Date and time of the procedure
• Analysis of the images and any findings related to the anatomy of the breasts
• Dictated report based on the analysis of the images

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 77047, ensure that the procedure involves MRI imaging of both breasts without the use of contrast material. It is important to follow payer guidelines regarding the reporting of contrast material separately, if applicable. Modifier 26 should be appended to the radiology code if reporting only the physician’s interpretation, and modifier TC should be appended if reporting only the technical component. However, payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. It is crucial to review individual payer policies for specific guidelines on reporting CPT 77047.

8. Historical information

CPT 77047 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2019. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs MRI imaging of both breasts without contrast material to investigate the anatomy and detect any fibrosis or lesions.
2. A patient undergoes bilateral breast MRI without contrast material as part of a routine screening for breast cancer.
3. A provider orders MRI imaging of both breasts without contrast material to evaluate a patient with a family history of breast cancer.
4. A patient with a known breast abnormality undergoes MRI imaging of both breasts without contrast material to assess the extent of the abnormality.
5. A provider performs MRI imaging of both breasts without contrast material to monitor the response to treatment in a patient with a known breast condition.
6. A patient with breast pain undergoes bilateral breast MRI without contrast material to investigate the cause of the pain.
7. A provider orders MRI imaging of both breasts without contrast material to evaluate a patient with a suspected breast abnormality detected on previous imaging.
8. A patient with a history of breast cancer undergoes bilateral breast MRI without contrast material for surveillance purposes.
9. A provider performs MRI imaging of both breasts without contrast material to assess the response to neoadjuvant therapy in a patient with breast cancer.
10. A patient with a breast implant undergoes bilateral breast MRI without contrast material to evaluate the integrity of the implant and assess for any associated abnormalities.