2025 CPT code 70130
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Radiology Procedures - Diagnostic Radiology Radiology Feed
Radiologic examination of mastoids; complete, minimum of three views per side.
Modifier 50 (bilateral procedure) may be appended, depending on payer-specific guidelines.Modifiers 26 (professional component), TC (technical component), and others may also apply depending on the specific circumstances of service provision.
Medical necessity for this procedure is established by the presence of symptoms or findings suggestive of mastoiditis, vestibular disorders, or head and neck masses requiring radiologic evaluation. Appropriate clinical indications must be documented.
The radiologist or qualified technician performs the x-ray procedure and interprets the images.A physician may review and provide a diagnosis based on the findings.
In simple words: The doctor takes X-rays of the mastoid bone behind your ear (at least three pictures per side) to check for problems like infection or balance issues.
This CPT code encompasses a comprehensive radiologic examination of the mastoid process, involving a minimum of three views per side.The procedure is typically performed to aid in the diagnosis of mastoiditis, vestibular disorders (including vertiginous syndromes), or to evaluate head and neck masses or swellings. The examination requires the provider to take images of the mastoid portion of the temporal bone, focusing on clear visualization of the mastoid air cells.
Example 1: A patient presents with ear pain, fever, and tenderness behind the ear. The physician orders a mastoid x-ray (70130) to evaluate for possible mastoiditis., A patient experiences recurring episodes of vertigo and dizziness.A mastoid x-ray (70130) is ordered as part of a comprehensive evaluation of the vestibular system., A patient has a palpable mass behind the ear.The physician orders a mastoid x-ray (70130) to determine the nature and extent of the mass.
The medical record should include the patient's clinical presentation, the reason for the examination, the number and type of views obtained,the findings of the radiologic examination, and the radiologist's interpretation.The report must clearly specify whether the exam was unilateral or bilateral.
** Ensure that the documentation clearly specifies the number of views obtained, as this is a crucial factor in determining the appropriateness of code 70130. Always consult payer guidelines for specific billing requirements, including the use of modifier 50 for bilateral procedures.
- Revenue Code: I1B (STANDARD IMAGING - MUSCULOSKELETAL)
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC (technical component) may be used if applicable. This is often the case with institutional billing.Consult your payer's specific guidelines.
- Specialties:Otolaryngology, Radiology, Neurosurgery
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital, Outpatient Imaging Center