Question

understanding radiology coding

using the cpt manual, code the following from the diagnostic radiology subsection of the radiology chapter.

mri of spinal canal, thoracic; with contrast

Explanation:

Identify the procedure and anatomical site

Using the CPT Coding knowledge point, we identify the procedure as a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan and the anatomical site as the spinal canal of the thoracic region.

Determine the contrast administration status

The procedure description specifies that the MRI is performed "with contrast".

Locate the correct CPT code

Using the Spine MRI Coding knowledge point, we look up the CPT code range for MRI of the spinal canal and contents:

• Cervical spine: 72141 (without), 72142 (with), 72156 (without followed by with)
• Thoracic spine: 72146 (without), 72147 (with), 72157 (without followed by with)
• Lumbar spine: 72148 (without), 72149 (with), 72158 (without followed by with)

Therefore, the correct code for a thoracic spinal canal MRI with contrast is 72147.

Answer:

Using the CPT manual, code the following from the Diagnostic Radiology subsection of the Radiology chapter.

MRI of spinal canal, thoracic; with contrast <blank>72147</blank>