Radiology Coding Alert

But be sure you claim only those services actually performed.Packaging surgery and related radiology services into a single CPT® code is increasingly common. But if you assume percutaneous vertebroplasty falls into that category, you're letting hard-earned dollars slip through your fingers. Keep these guidelines in mind for accurate supervision and interpretation coding.Separate Codes Capture Surgery and RS&I Percutaneous vertebroplasty typically involves using anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views to confirm a needle's path into a vertebral body. The physician then injects a resin mixture into the vertebral body until it is adequately filled.Imaging, therefore, plays an important role in positioning the needle and assessing the injection technique. CPT® provides separate codes for the surgical portion and the radiological supervision and interpretation (RS&I) portion.The physician performing the surgical portion should choose from the following codes, depending on the vertebral body/bodies involved:22520, Percutaneous vertebroplasty (bone biopsy included when performed), 1 vertebral body, unilateral [...]