How To Use HCPCS Code C8911

HCPCS code C8911 describes a specific medical procedure known as magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast, specifically for the chest (excluding myocardium). This code is used to identify and bill for this particular diagnostic imaging procedure.

1. What is HCPCS C8911?

HCPCS code C8911 is a specific alphanumeric code that is used in medical coding to identify a particular medical procedure or service. In this case, it refers to a magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast for the chest (excluding myocardium). This code is used to accurately document and bill for this specific imaging procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C8911 is “Magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast, chest (excluding myocardium).” The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.”

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing the patient for the magnetic resonance angiography procedure.
2. The patient is positioned on the examination table, usually lying on their back.
3. The provider then administers a contrast agent to the patient, either orally or intravenously, depending on the specific requirements of the procedure.
4. The patient is then moved into the MRI machine, which uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the blood vessels in the chest.
5. The procedure typically takes around 30-60 minutes, during which the patient must remain still.
6. Once the images are obtained, the provider reviews and interprets the results to make a diagnosis or assess the condition of the blood vessels in the chest.

4. When to use HCPCS code C8911

HCPCS code C8911 is used when a healthcare provider performs a magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast specifically for the chest (excluding myocardium). This procedure is typically used to evaluate the blood vessels in the chest for various conditions or diseases, such as aneurysms, blockages, or abnormalities.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C8911, healthcare providers need to ensure that they accurately document the procedure performed and provide any necessary supporting documentation. This may include the patient’s medical history, the reason for the procedure, and the results or findings from the imaging study. It is important to follow the specific billing guidelines set forth by the payer, such as Medicare or private insurance companies, to ensure proper reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C8911 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 to the code since its addition.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code C8911 may be covered by Medicare and other insurance providers, but coverage may vary depending on the specific circumstances and medical necessity. 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 for healthcare providers to verify coverage and reimbursement policies with the respective payers.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C8911 may be billed:

1. A patient with suspected pulmonary embolism undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast to evaluate the blood vessels in the chest for any blockages or abnormalities.
2. A patient with a known aortic aneurysm undergoes routine monitoring with a magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast to assess the size and condition of the aneurysm.
3. A patient with a history of chest pain and suspected coronary artery disease undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast to evaluate the blood vessels in the chest for any blockages or narrowing.
4. A patient with a suspected thoracic outlet syndrome undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast to assess the blood flow and potential compression of the blood vessels in the chest.
5. A patient with a known vascular malformation in the chest undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography without contrast followed by with contrast to assess the extent and characteristics of the malformation.