2025 CPT code 74240
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Diagnostic Radiology - Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Radiology Feed
Radiologic examination of the upper GI tract using a single-contrast barium study, including scout films and delayed images if needed.
Modifiers 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) may apply depending on the provider's role and the setting.
Medical necessity for a 74240 is established based on the patient's clinical presentation, symptoms, and the need to visualize the upper GI tract to diagnose or monitor a specific condition.This might include evaluating dysphagia, unexplained abdominal pain, suspected ulcers, or following up on prior endoscopic procedures.
The clinical responsibility involves patient positioning, contrast administration, fluoroscopy monitoring, image acquisition (including scout and delayed films as needed), image interpretation, and generation of a comprehensive report detailing findings.The physician is responsible for all aspects of the procedure, from preparation to post-procedure reporting and interpretation.
In simple words: This test uses X-rays and a special liquid (barium) that you swallow to take pictures of your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of your small intestine.The doctor will look at the pictures to check for any problems.
This CPT code, 74240, encompasses a radiologic examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.The procedure utilizes a single-contrast barium sulfate study to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.The service includes initial scout films of the abdomen and additional delayed images if clinically indicated. The physician positions the patient, administers the contrast material, monitors the fluoroscopic images, and interprets the results to identify potential pathologies such as tumors, obstructions, or ulcers. A comprehensive written report documenting the findings is generated.
Example 1: A patient presents with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). A 74240 is performed to evaluate the esophagus for strictures, tumors, or other abnormalities hindering swallowing., A patient experiences persistent epigastric pain. A 74240 is used to assess the stomach and duodenal bulb for ulcers, gastritis, or other sources of pain., A patient has undergone a prior upper endoscopy. A 74240 is performed as a follow-up imaging study to assess the healing of an ulcer or to look for any signs of recurrence.
* Patient demographics and relevant history.* Indication for the procedure (e.g., dysphagia, abdominal pain, follow-up).* Detailed description of the procedure, including contrast medium used (single-contrast barium sulfate), positioning of the patient, and type of films obtained (scout and any delayed films).* Images and a comprehensive radiology report detailing findings, impressions, and clinical correlation.
** The specific number of images acquired can vary based on clinical needs.The use of other contrast agents besides barium should be documented.
- Revenue Code: I1D (STANDARD IMAGING - CONTRAST GASTROINTESTINAL)
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC applies if only the technical component of the service is performed.
- Specialties:* Radiology* Gastroenterology
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center