2025 CPT code 73000
Radiologic examination of the clavicle (collarbone), complete.
Modifiers 26 (Professional Component) and TC (Technical Component) may be used to report the professional and technical components of the procedure separately. Modifier 50 (Bilateral Procedure) may be used if both clavicles are examined.
Medical necessity for this procedure must be established by the patient's presenting symptoms, such as pain, swelling, deformity, or limited range of motion in the shoulder area. The documentation should clearly link the radiologic examination to the patient's condition and the need to rule out or confirm a diagnosis.
The provider positions the patient and obtains the necessary X-ray images. While a radiologic technician typically performs the procedure, the physician is responsible for supervising and interpreting the images.
In simple words: A complete X-ray study of the collarbone to check for breaks, injuries, or other bone problems. It involves taking pictures from different angles to ensure a thorough examination.
This code represents a complete radiologic examination of the clavicle (collarbone), typically performed to assess fractures, injuries, arthritis, bone spurs, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. The procedure involves obtaining multiple X-ray images of the clavicle, including anteroposterior (AP) and oblique views, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the bone.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency room after falling and landing on their shoulder. To rule out a clavicle fracture, a complete radiologic examination (73000) is performed., A patient with chronic shoulder pain and limited range of motion undergoes a complete clavicle X-ray (73000) to evaluate for arthritis or bone spurs., A pediatrician orders a complete clavicle X-ray (73000) for a newborn with a suspected congenital abnormality of the shoulder.
Documentation should include the reason for the examination, the number and types of views obtained (AP, oblique, etc.), the radiographic findings, and the physician's interpretation.
- Specialties:Radiology, Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Independent Clinic, etc.