Internal Medicine Coding Alert
READER QUESTIONS:
X-Ray of Both Wrists Always = Mod 50
Published on Fri Jul 24, 2009 
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Question:
New York Subscriber
Answer:
No. For x-rays (73110, Radiologic examination, wrist; complete, minimum of 3 views) of the right and left wrists, always use modifier 50 (Bilateral procedure).The same would apply to x-rays of other pairs (for instance, right and left) of limbs as well, such as 73130 (Radiologic examination, hand; minimum of 3 views) or 73562 (Radiologic examination, knee; 3 views). You may also wish to check with the payer to determine if its policy requires modifier RT (Right side) and LT (Left side) instead of modifier 50: 73110-RT, 73110-LT, or 73110-50.
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