How To Use CPT Code 77078

CPT 77078 describes the evaluation technique of computed tomography (CT) for bone mineral density study. 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 77078?

CPT 77078 can be used to describe the evaluation technique of computed tomography (CT) for bone mineral density study. This code is used when a CT scan is performed to assess bone mass or density associated with diseases such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and renal osteodystrophy. The CT scan produces 2D and 3D cross-sectional images of the bones, allowing for the evaluation of bone diseases and their responses to treatment.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 77078 is: ‘Computed tomography, bone mineral density study, 1 or more sites, axial skeleton (eg, hips, pelvis, spine).’ This code is used when a CT scan is performed to evaluate bone mineral density in one or more sites of the axial skeleton, such as the hips, pelvis, or spine.

3. Procedure

1. The physician administers a contrast material to the patient, either intravenously or orally, before the CT scan.
2. The patient lies down on the CT table and is positioned with the help of straps and pillows for support.
3. The CT table moves inside the scanner, and multiple narrow beams of X-rays are shot around the target bone.
4. A special imaging program is used to produce thin slices or cross-sectional views of the bone tissues.
5. The patient is instructed to stay still and hold their breath during the scanning procedure.
6. Once the examination is completed, the results are verified by the physician.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 77078 is used for patients who require a CT scan to evaluate bone mineral density. This may include patients with diseases such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and renal osteodystrophy. The scan is performed on one or more sites of the axial skeleton, such as the hips, pelvis, or spine.

5. When to use CPT code 77078

CPT code 77078 should be used when a CT scan is performed to evaluate bone mineral density in one or more sites of the axial skeleton. It is appropriate to use this code when assessing diseases related to bone mass or density, such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and renal osteodystrophy.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 77078, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the CT scan and the need to evaluate bone mineral density
• Specific sites of the axial skeleton scanned, such as the hips, pelvis, or spine
• Date of the CT scan
• Contrast material administered, if applicable
• Results of the CT scan and any relevant findings
• Signature of the physician verifying the results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 77078, ensure that the CT scan is performed to evaluate bone mineral density in one or more sites of the axial skeleton. It is important to use the appropriate code based on the specific sites scanned. CPT code 77078 should not be reported with other codes for bone/joint studies. It is important to code it only once, even if multiple sites are examined in a single sitting.

8. Historical information

CPT 77078 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. The code was later changed on January 1, 2016 to include the specific mention of the axial skeleton (eg, hips, pelvis, spine).

9. Examples

1. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s hips to evaluate bone mineral density for the diagnosis of osteoporosis.
2. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s pelvis to assess bone mass in the evaluation of renal osteodystrophy.
3. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s spine to monitor the response of osteomalacia to treatment.
4. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s hips and pelvis to evaluate bone density in the diagnosis of osteoporosis and renal osteodystrophy.
5. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s spine and pelvis to assess bone mineral density in the evaluation of osteomalacia and renal osteodystrophy.
6. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s hips, pelvis, and spine to monitor the response of osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and renal osteodystrophy to treatment.
7. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s hips and spine to evaluate bone mass in the diagnosis of osteoporosis and osteomalacia.
8. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s pelvis and spine to assess bone density in the evaluation of renal osteodystrophy and osteomalacia.
9. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s hips, pelvis, and spine to monitor the response of osteoporosis, renal osteodystrophy, and osteomalacia to treatment.
10. A CT scan is performed on a patient’s hips, pelvis, and spine to evaluate bone mineral density for the diagnosis and monitoring of osteoporosis, renal osteodystrophy, and osteomalacia.