2025 CPT code 73202
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Diagnostic Radiology - Computed Tomography Radiology Feed
Computed tomography of the upper extremity; without contrast material, followed by contrast material(s) and further sections.
Modifiers such as 26 (professional component), TC (technical component), 50 (bilateral procedure), 59 (distinct procedural service), and laterality modifiers (RT, LT) may be applicable.
Medical necessity for 73202 must be supported by the patient's clinical presentation and the suspected condition being evaluated. The documentation should clearly demonstrate why both non-contrast and contrast-enhanced images are necessary.
The physician positions the patient, supervises contrast administration, oversees image acquisition, interprets the images, and prepares a report.
In simple words: A CT scan of your arm is taken, first without dye and then with dye injected into your vein to get clearer pictures.
This procedure involves computed tomographic imaging of the upper extremity, initially performed without contrast, followed by imaging after the administration of contrast material.The patient is positioned supine on the scanner table, and an intravenous (IV) line is inserted.Scout films or preliminary images are taken, followed by image acquisition of the upper extremity without contrast.Subsequently, contrast material is administered intravenously, and further images are acquired. The provider reviews and interprets the images to diagnose, manage, and treat diseases.
Example 1: A patient presents with arm pain and swelling after a fall. A CT scan of the upper extremity without and with contrast is ordered to evaluate for fractures or soft tissue injuries., A patient with a history of cancer has a suspicious mass in their upper arm. A CT scan without and with contrast is performed to assess the mass and determine if it represents recurrence or a new lesion. , A patient with suspected vascular disease in the arm undergoes a CT angiogram of the upper extremity, utilizing contrast to visualize the blood vessels.
Documentation should include the reason for the study, the areas imaged (e.g., specific arm, shoulder to hand), the contrast used, and the interpretation of the images with any relevant findings.
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC can be used to report the technical component only.
- Specialties:Radiology, Orthopedic Surgery, Oncology, Vascular Surgery
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital Outpatient, Independent Clinic, Ambulatory Surgical Center, and other facilities where CT imaging is performed