Radiology Coding Alert
Separate Lumbar Plexus From Lumbar
Question: Which code should I report for MRI lumbar plexus? Texas Subscriber Answer: Here's why: Lumbar MRI codes 72148, 72149, and 72158 (Magnetic resonance [e.g., proton] imaging, spinal canal and contents, lumbar...) specify "spinal canal," which is the space in the vertebrae the spinal cord passes through. The lumbar plexus is a nerve network situated in the posterior part of the psoas muscle and in front of the lumbar vertebrae transverse processes, which are bone projections muscles attach to. So the lumbar spinal canal codes aren't appropriate for a lumbar plexus MRI. The lumbar region is between the diaphragm and the pelvis, so codes 72195-72197 (Magnetic resonance [e.g., proton] imaging, pelvis ...) also would not be correct.
Radiology Coding Alert
- Boost Your IR Coding With This Brachiocephalic Breakdown
See if you can pick out which vessels were simply 'on the way' and which [...] - 3 CCI Changes to Keep Your Eye On
Confused about moderate sedation? CCI Edits offers some answers Along with a much-anticipated change of [...] - Bulletproof Your Coding:
Ace Selective Vs. Nonselective
Don't miss how appendix L can help make your claims cleanerCPT and the AMA offer [...] - News You Can Use:
Start Prepping for More Specific ICD-10 Today
Implementation may be just around the cornerIf you think keeping up with the new 2009 [...] - You Be the Coder:
Determine Radiologist's Role in HSG
Question: How should I code a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) performed with obstetrics and gynecology for an [...] - Reader Questions:
Guidance Type Matters for Clip Confirmation
Question: If the radiologist performs a breast biopsy (19103) with clip placement and uses a [...] - Reader Questions:
Tackle 72020, 72050 Bundle
Question: If the patient has a cross-table C-spine (72020), the radiologist clears the cross table, [...] - Reader Questions:
PET Coverage Takes a Hit
Question: CPT 2008 removed the phrase "tumor imaging" from PET codes 78811-78816. Has Medicare started [...] - Reader Questions:
Catch CMS' DXA Coverage Rules
Question: Which ICD-9 code should I report for a 64-year-old female patient with a history [...] - Reader Questions:
Separate Lumbar Plexus From Lumbar
Question: Which code should I report for MRI lumbar plexus?Texas SubscriberAnswer: Your best bet for [...] - Reader Questions:
Verify Reason for AAA Ultrasound
Question: What is the appropriate CPT code for an ultrasound of the aorta to detect [...]
