Question

understanding radiology coding

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

x-ray of the femur, one view

Explanation:

Identify the procedure and anatomical site

Using the Radiology Coding knowledge point, we identify the procedure as an X-ray (radiologic examination) and the anatomical site as the femur (thigh bone).

Determine the number of views

The prompt specifies that the procedure consists of "one view".

Locate the CPT code

Using the CPT Coding knowledge point, we look up "Radiologic examination, femur" in the CPT manual:

• CPT code 73551: Radiologic examination, femur; 1 view
• CPT code 73552: Radiologic examination, femur; minimum 2 views

Therefore, the correct code for a single view is 73551.

Answer:

X-ray of the femur, one view <blank>73551</blank>