How To Use CPT Code 77084

CPT 77084 describes the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study and evaluate the blood supply to the bone marrow. 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 77084?

CPT 77084 can be used to describe the use of MRI to assess the blood supply to the bone marrow. This code is used when a healthcare provider utilizes MRI technology to visualize and diagnose diseases or conditions related to the bone marrow. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s tissues, allowing for the identification of abnormalities or alterations in the bone marrow.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 77084 is: ‘Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, bone marrow blood supply.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider places the patient within an MRI scanner, which generates a strong magnetic field around the area of interest.
2. The MRI scanner uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the bone marrow and surrounding tissues.
3. The provider analyzes the MRI images to evaluate the blood supply to the bone marrow and identify any abnormalities or alterations.
4. The provider may compare the MRI findings to normal bone marrow patterns to aid in the diagnosis of hematologic disorders or other conditions affecting the bone marrow.
5. The MRI procedure is typically non-invasive and does not involve any injections or radiation exposure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 77084 is used when a healthcare provider utilizes MRI technology specifically to evaluate the blood supply to the bone marrow. This procedure is typically performed to diagnose and manage diseases or conditions that affect the bone marrow, such as hematologic disorders or diffuse bone marrow infiltration. The provider must have the necessary equipment and expertise to perform MRI scans and interpret the images accurately.

5. When to use CPT code 77084

CPT code 77084 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an MRI scan specifically to evaluate the blood supply to the bone marrow. This code is appropriate when the provider is assessing and diagnosing diseases or conditions related to the bone marrow, such as hematologic disorders or diffuse bone marrow infiltration. It is important to ensure that the MRI scan is focused on the bone marrow and not other areas of the body.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 77084, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the MRI scan and the specific bone marrow-related condition being evaluated
• Date and time of the MRI scan
• Details of the MRI procedure, including the specific sequences used and any contrast agents administered
• Findings from the MRI scan, including any abnormalities or alterations in the bone marrow blood supply
• Interpretation of the MRI images by the healthcare provider
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the MRI scan

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 77084, ensure that the MRI scan is specifically focused on evaluating the blood supply to the bone marrow. It is important to use the appropriate documentation and coding to support the medical necessity of the procedure. CPT code 77084 should not be reported with other codes unless there are distinct and separate indications for each code. It is crucial to follow the guidelines and requirements set forth by the payer to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 77084 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with suspected bone marrow infiltration undergoes an MRI scan to evaluate the blood supply to the bone marrow.
2. A healthcare provider orders an MRI scan to assess the bone marrow blood supply in a patient with a suspected hematologic disorder.
3. An individual with unexplained bone pain undergoes an MRI scan to investigate potential abnormalities in the bone marrow blood supply.
4. A patient with a history of hematologic malignancy undergoes regular MRI scans to monitor the blood supply to the bone marrow for any signs of disease recurrence.
5. A healthcare provider utilizes an MRI scan to evaluate the bone marrow blood supply in a patient with suspected bone marrow edema.
6. An individual with a suspected bone marrow infection undergoes an MRI scan to assess the blood supply to the affected area.
7. A healthcare provider orders an MRI scan to evaluate the bone marrow blood supply in a patient with suspected bone marrow necrosis.
8. A patient with a history of bone marrow transplantation undergoes regular MRI scans to monitor the blood supply to the transplanted marrow.
9. An individual with unexplained anemia undergoes an MRI scan to assess the bone marrow blood supply and investigate potential causes.
10. A healthcare provider utilizes an MRI scan to evaluate the bone marrow blood supply in a patient with suspected bone marrow fibrosis.