How To Use HCPCS Code C8901

HCPCS code C8901 describes a specific medical procedure known as magnetic resonance angiography without contrast of the abdomen. This code is used to identify and bill for this particular diagnostic imaging procedure. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code C8901, including its official description, procedure, when to use it, billing guidelines, historical information, Medicare and insurance coverage, and provide examples of when this code should be billed.

1. What is HCPCS C8901?

HCPCS code C8901 is a specific code used to identify the procedure of magnetic resonance angiography without contrast of the abdomen. This procedure involves the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology to visualize the blood vessels in the abdomen without the use of contrast agents. It is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure that provides detailed images of the blood vessels in the abdominal region.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C8901 is “Magnetic resonance angiography without contrast, abdomen.” The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.” This description accurately represents the procedure being performed, which is the use of magnetic resonance angiography to visualize the blood vessels in the abdomen without the use of contrast agents.

3. Procedure

1. The procedure of magnetic resonance angiography without contrast of the abdomen involves the following steps:
• The patient is positioned on the MRI table.
• The MRI technician places a coil or device over the abdomen to capture the images.
• The MRI machine generates a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the blood vessels in the abdomen.
• The technician guides the patient to hold their breath or remain still during the imaging process to ensure clear images.
• The images captured during the procedure are then interpreted by a radiologist or healthcare provider to assess the condition of the blood vessels in the abdomen.

4. When to use HCPCS code C8901

HCPCS code C8901 should be used when performing magnetic resonance angiography without contrast of the abdomen. This procedure is typically used to evaluate the blood vessels in the abdominal region for various conditions, such as vascular diseases, aneurysms, or other abnormalities. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed without the use of contrast agents, as the code specifically indicates “without contrast.”

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C8901, healthcare providers need to ensure proper documentation of the procedure performed. This includes documenting the use of magnetic resonance angiography without contrast of the abdomen, the medical necessity for the procedure, and any relevant findings or observations. It is also important to follow the specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C8901 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. It has an effective date of January 01, 1996. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code. This code has been in use for several years without significant changes or updates.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

Medicare and insurance coverage for HCPCS code C8901 may vary depending on the specific policies and guidelines of the payer. The pricing indicator code for this code is 57, which indicates that it is priced by other carriers. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. It is important to verify coverage and reimbursement policies with the respective payer to ensure proper billing and reimbursement for this procedure.

8. Examples

Here are some examples of when HCPCS code C8901 should be billed:

1. A patient with suspected abdominal vascular disease undergoes magnetic resonance angiography without contrast to assess the condition of the blood vessels in the abdomen.
2. A patient with a known abdominal aneurysm requires regular monitoring of the blood vessels in the abdomen using magnetic resonance angiography without contrast.
3. A patient with unexplained abdominal pain undergoes magnetic resonance angiography without contrast to rule out any vascular abnormalities.
4. A patient with a history of abdominal trauma undergoes magnetic resonance angiography without contrast to evaluate the integrity of the blood vessels in the abdomen.
5. A patient with a suspected abdominal tumor undergoes magnetic resonance angiography without contrast to assess the blood supply to the tumor.