Cardiology Coding Alert

Question: Does documenting MIP reconstruction support reporting CTA instead of CT (noncoronary)?

Florida Subscriber

Answer: Maximum intensity pixel (MIP) reconstruction does qualify as the "image postprocessing" computed tomographic angiography (CTA) requires because MIP is a 3D technique.

One of the main differences between CT and a typical CTA is that CTA includes angiographic image reconstruction postprocessing and interpretation. Specialty societies suggest that CTA angiographic reconstruction must involve a 3D technique, such as MIP or volumerendered images. You should use a standard CT code for 2D postprocessing because 2D planar reconstructions don't count as angiographic reconstruction.

Example: A cardiologist orders and interprets a noncoronary chest CTA. The cardiologist's documentation for the service includes 3D rendering. You should report 71275-26 (Computed tomographic angiography, chest [noncoronary], with contrast material[s], including noncontrast images, if performed, and image postprocessing; Professional component).