There have been updates to the code description, with the most recent change occurring on January 1, 2013. Do not append a professional or technical modifier to the radiology code when reporting a global service in which one provider renders both the professional and technical components.ĬPT 72050 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990.Note that payer policy may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC, as the hospital’s portion is inherently technical. If reporting only the technical component of the radiology service, append modifier TC to the radiology code.If reporting only the physician’s interpretation of the radiology service, append professional component modifier 26 to the radiology code.When billing for CPT code 72050, keep in mind the following guidelines: Interpretation and findings of the cervical spine X-ray images.Technical details of the X-ray procedure, including patient positioning and projection.Number of views taken during the examination (four or five).Indication for the radiologic examination.Physical examination findings related to the cervical spine.Patient’s medical history and presenting symptoms or conditions.Additionally, patients with known or suspected spinal conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or tumors, may also require this diagnostic procedure.
These may include neck pain, stiffness, numbness, or weakness, as well as a history of trauma or injury to the cervical spine. Patients eligible to receive CPT code 72050 services are those who present with symptoms or conditions that warrant a radiologic examination of the cervical spine.
The provider examines the X-ray images to assess the cervical spine for any abnormalities or issues.The patient holds their breath while the images are taken to prevent blurring.A special film or computer records the image of the cervical spine, capturing four or five views.