Advanced Search

Radiology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Match Sacrum/Coccyx MRI to 72195

Published on Thu Sep 10, 2009

Question: How should I code an MRI of the lumbar spine, sacrum, and coccyx without contrast? Florida Subscriber Answer: You should report exams of the sacrum and sacroiliac joints with a pelvis MRI code (72195-72197). Because the study was "without contrast," choose 72195 (Magnetic resonance [e.g., proton] imaging, pelvis; without contrast material[s]). One pelvis code should cover both the sacrum and coccyx MRI. You may report a lumbar spine MRI code (72148, 72149, 72158) separately as long as you have orders, medical necessity, and documentation for both studies. Assuming you meet documentation requirements, for the noncontrast study, you should report 72148 (Magnetic resonance [e.g., proton] imaging, spinal canal and contents, lumbar; without contrast material[s]).
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Radiology Coding Alert

View All