How To Use HCPCS Code C8909

HCPCS code C8909 describes a specific medical procedure known as magnetic resonance angiography with contrast, specifically for the chest (excluding myocardium). 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 C8909, 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 C8909?

HCPCS code C8909 is a specific code used to identify the procedure of magnetic resonance angiography with contrast for the chest (excluding myocardium). It is important to note that this code is specific to this particular diagnostic imaging procedure and should not be used for other types of procedures or services.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C8909 is “Magnetic resonance angiography with contrast, chest (excluding myocardium).” The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.” This description accurately represents the procedure and helps healthcare providers and medical coders identify and bill for this specific service.

3. Procedure

1. The procedure of magnetic resonance angiography with contrast for the chest (excluding myocardium) involves the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology to visualize the blood vessels in the chest area.
2. Prior to the procedure, the patient may be required to remove any metallic objects or jewelry that could interfere with the MRI scan.
3. A contrast agent, typically a gadolinium-based contrast agent, may be administered to enhance the visibility of the blood vessels during the imaging process.
4. The patient will be positioned on a table that slides into the MRI machine, which uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the blood vessels.
5. The MRI technician will operate the machine from a separate room, monitoring the scan and ensuring the quality of the images.
6. Once the scan is complete, the images will be reviewed and interpreted by a radiologist or other qualified healthcare professional.
7. The results of the magnetic resonance angiography will help in diagnosing and evaluating conditions affecting the blood vessels in the chest.

4. When to use HCPCS code C8909

HCPCS code C8909 should be used when performing magnetic resonance angiography with contrast specifically for the chest (excluding myocardium). It is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description provided by the code. This code should not be used for other types of diagnostic imaging procedures or services.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C8909, healthcare providers need to ensure that the necessary documentation is in place to support the medical necessity of the procedure. This may include the physician’s order, the patient’s medical history, and any relevant clinical notes or reports. Additionally, the use of contrast and any associated supplies should be documented and billed accordingly.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C8909 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. It has an effective date of January 01, 1996. As indicated by the action code N, no maintenance actions have been taken for this code. This means that there have been no updates or revisions since its addition to the coding system.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code C8909 may be eligible for coverage by Medicare and other insurance providers. The pricing indicator code 57 indicates that this code is priced by other carriers using their own methodology. The multiple pricing indicator code A signifies that this code is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. It is important for healthcare providers to verify coverage and reimbursement policies with the respective payers.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C8909 should be billed:

1. A patient presents with symptoms of chest pain and is referred for a magnetic resonance angiography to evaluate the blood vessels in the chest.
2. A follow-up magnetic resonance angiography is performed on a patient with a known vascular condition to monitor the progression of the disease.
3. A patient with a history of pulmonary embolism undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography to assess the blood flow in the pulmonary arteries.
4. A preoperative evaluation includes a magnetic resonance angiography of the chest to assess the blood vessels before a surgical procedure.
5. A patient with a suspected thoracic aortic aneurysm undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography to visualize the aorta and determine the extent of the aneurysm.