73562 CPT code explained: Procedure description and importance

We already know that Current Procedural Terminology, or CPT codes, play a significant role in the healthcare industry when it comes to billing, reimbursement, standardization, insurance coverage, and research for various operations.

The MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) procedures that benefit patients in numerous ways are also tied to these codes; specifically, 73562. Medical experts employ MRI to obtain precise images of the inside organs and tissues of the human body. In simpler words, the scans of the knee are particularly covered by CPT Code 73562.

What is the description of the code 73562?

CPT 73562 code is used to bill for and record MRI scans of any lower extremity joint without the use of a contrast agent, such as the knee or ankle. To precisely define and categorize this diagnostic technique for reimbursement and record-keeping purposes, healthcare practitioners and insurance companies rely on this specified code.

What is the purpose of the CPT code 73562?

Many knee disorders can be diagnosed with a knee MRI. This includes examining ligament tears, meniscus tears, cartilage damage, and arthritis.

This code’s major objective is to standardize the diagnostic process and record it for insurance billing and medical record-keeping, enabling healthcare professionals to evaluate and diagnose musculoskeletal issues affecting the lower extremities.

What happens during a knee MRI with 73562 code?

So, what actually happens during an MRI with code 73562?

During a knee MRI, the patient lies on an examination table that slides into the MRI machine. It’s essential to remain still, as any movement can affect the quality of the images. The MRI machine uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed cross-sectional images of the knee joint.

What are the billing requirements of CPT code 73562?

We have gathered some following billing requirements for you to have a look over.

1. Medical emergency
2. Proper Coding
3. Patient information along with patient history
4. Clear and itemized billing
5. Documentation
6. Modifiers and Appeal process
7. Insurance Contracts
8. Timely submission

How is CPT 73562 different from other knee imaging codes?

While CPT code 73562 is used for a thorough review of the knee’s imaging using a variety of modalities, other knee imaging codes are used for specific MRI sequences with or without contrast, limited X-ray views, or evaluations of both knees.

Depending on the type of imaging operation carried out and the clinical justification for the evaluation of the knee joint, a separate CPT code will be applied. It’s important for healthcare providers to assign the appropriate code based on the specific imaging study conducted.

Challenges associated with a knee MRI (CPT Code 73562):

There are several challenges associated with a knee MRI for both the patient and the practitioner, including;

• Patient discomfort
• Claustrophobia
• The need for contrast dye injection in some cases
• Potential for artifacts or image distortion due to metal implants or other factors.

Few considerations

Here are some major considerations that a medical professional must consider before employing the code that may help to overcome the challenges.

• Medical Condition of the patient

The nurse or medical professional must consider how well the patient can stand and hold their own weight during the process. People with certain health problems or who have difficulty moving around might not be good candidates for this kind of study. In this case, it might be necessary to look at other screening methods.

• Clinical Indication

The healthcare provider needs to carefully look at the patient’s symptoms, the results of the physical exam, and any imaging studies that were done in the past that are relevant. They should figure out if a long leg weight-bearing study is the best way to get the information they need for a correct diagnosis or treatment plan.

• Radiation Exposure

Before deciding to subject the patient to ionizing radiation during the process, it is important to weigh the possible risks against the benefits. The physician or nurse ought to speculate about whether the long leg weight-bearing study is necessary and the possible risks of radiation exposure.

• Relevance of the treatment

The healthcare provider must consider how the long leg weight-bearing study results will change the treatment plan for the patient. They should think about whether the process will give them useful information that can help them make decisions and improve patient care.

• Documentation

When using CPT code 73562, it is essential to have accurate and thorough documents. The nurse or physician must make sure that the treatment is properly recorded in the patient’s medical records, including the exact reasons, results, and justifications for using this code.

Some key features of CPT code 73562

Every code is used to describe a specific medical procedure or service and so does the code 73562. The key features as per the services of 73562, are mentioned below.

• Diagnostic tool

When X-rays are taken from the hip down to the ankle, they show the whole length of the leg. This is what “long leg” means. This helps give a full picture of the knee joint and how it connects to the bones and structures around it.

• Long leg study

Orthopedic surgeons and other healthcare professionals often use CPT code 73562 to help them figure out the problem with knee conditions like osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, fractures, and other issues.

• Weight-bearing

CPT code 73562 is often used by orthopedic surgeons and other medical professionals to help them figure out how to deal with knee conditions like osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, fractures, and more.

Is 73562 code insured?

Yes, indeed. It’s covered by Medicare and private insurance. Patients should check with their insurance provider for coverage, copayments, and deductibles, as coverage depends on medical necessity.