How To Use CPT Code 77075

CPT 77075 describes the radiologic examination of the osseous survey, which involves imaging all the bones of the body to evaluate the spread of cancer or detect any other abnormalities. 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 77075?

CPT 77075 can be used to describe the radiologic examination of the osseous survey, which involves imaging all the bones of the body. This procedure is typically performed to evaluate the spread of cancer or detect any other abnormalities in the bones.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 77075 is: ‘Radiologic examination, osseous survey; complete (axial and appendicular skeleton).’ This code encompasses the imaging of both the axial skeleton (head and trunk) and the appendicular skeleton (extremities).

3. Procedure

1. In this procedure, the healthcare provider performs a series of X-ray images of all the bones in the body.
2. The goal of the procedure is to evaluate the spread of cancer or detect any other abnormalities in the bones.
3. The provider performs a complete study, imaging both the axial skeleton (head and trunk) and the appendicular skeleton (extremities).
4. The X-ray images are taken using radiation to diagnose, manage, and treat diseases by examining specific body structures.
5. The provider may use additional imaging techniques or views to obtain a comprehensive evaluation of the bones.
6. The procedure is typically performed in a radiology department or facility equipped with the necessary imaging equipment.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 77075 is typically performed when there is a need to evaluate the spread of cancer or detect abnormalities in the bones. It may be used for patients with suspected bone metastases or those who require a comprehensive assessment of their skeletal system. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider trained in radiology and is typically ordered based on the patient’s clinical presentation and medical history.

5. When to use CPT code 77075

CPT code 77075 should be used when a complete radiologic examination of the osseous survey is performed, imaging both the axial and appendicular skeleton. This code is appropriate when the provider evaluates the spread of cancer or detects abnormalities in the bones. It should not be used for limited studies of specific bone regions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 77075, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the examination, such as suspected bone metastases or evaluation of skeletal abnormalities
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the imaging techniques used
• Findings and impressions from the examination
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing or interpreting the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 77075, ensure that the procedure involves a complete radiologic examination of the osseous survey, imaging both the axial and appendicular skeleton. It is important to use the appropriate CPT code based on the extent of the examination performed. Modifier 26 should be appended to the radiology code if only the physician’s interpretation is being reported. Modifier TC should be appended if only the technical component is being reported. However, payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. If the provider renders both the professional and technical components, no modifier is necessary for reporting a global service.

8. Historical information

CPT 77075 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 patient with a history of breast cancer undergoes a complete osseous survey to evaluate for bone metastases.
2. A patient presents with unexplained bone pain, and a comprehensive examination of the skeletal system is performed to detect any abnormalities.
3. A patient with a known primary tumor undergoes a complete bone survey to assess the spread of cancer to the bones.
4. A patient with a suspected skeletal abnormality undergoes a radiologic examination of the osseous survey to obtain a comprehensive evaluation of their bones.
5. A patient with a history of lung cancer undergoes a complete bone survey to evaluate for bone metastases.
6. A patient with unexplained fractures undergoes a comprehensive examination of the skeletal system to identify any underlying bone abnormalities.
7. A patient with a suspected bone infection undergoes a complete osseous survey to assess the extent of the infection.
8. A patient with a history of prostate cancer undergoes a radiologic examination of the osseous survey to evaluate for bone metastases.
9. A patient with unexplained bone deformities undergoes a comprehensive examination of the skeletal system to identify any underlying bone abnormalities.
10. A patient with a suspected bone tumor undergoes a complete bone survey to assess the presence and extent of the tumor.