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A radiologic examination of the pharynx or larynx, as described by CPT® Code 70370, involves the use of X-ray technology to obtain images of these critical structures in the throat. This procedure utilizes indirect ionizing radiation to create detailed pictures of the internal anatomy. The principle behind X-ray imaging is based on the varying densities and compositions of human tissues, which affect how X-rays are absorbed or transmitted. As a result, some X-rays are absorbed by denser materials, while others pass through less dense areas, allowing for the creation of a two-dimensional image on a detector positioned behind the area being examined. Standard imaging views typically include posteroanterior and lateral perspectives, although oblique images may also be captured to enhance diagnostic accuracy, particularly when there is a suspicion of disease or abnormal anatomy that may not be evident in standard views. It is important to note that while CPT® Code 70370 encompasses fluoroscopy and magnification techniques, it is specifically limited to the diagnostic evaluation of the pharynx or larynx and does not include assessments of dynamic movements associated with speech. The primary purpose of this code is to visualize any potential pathologies or anatomical irregularities within these regions.
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The radiologic examination of the pharynx or larynx, coded as CPT® 70370, is indicated for various clinical scenarios where visualization of these structures is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:
The procedure for conducting a radiologic examination of the pharynx or larynx involves several key steps to ensure accurate imaging and diagnosis. The following outlines the procedural steps associated with CPT® Code 70370:
Following the radiologic examination of the pharynx or larynx, the patient may be advised to resume normal activities unless otherwise directed by the healthcare provider. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements associated with this imaging study. However, the interpreting physician will analyze the obtained images and provide a report detailing any findings, which will be communicated to the referring physician for further evaluation and management. It is essential for the healthcare team to discuss the results with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions based on the findings of the examination.
| Short Descr | THROAT X-RAY & FLUOROSCOPY | Medium Descr | RADEX PHARYNX/LARX W/FLUOR&/MAGNIFICATION TQ | Long Descr | Radiologic examination; pharynx or larynx, including fluoroscopy and/or magnification technique | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | STV-Packaged Codes | ASC Payment Indicator | Packaged service/item; no separate payment made. | Type of Service (TOS) | 4 - Diagnostic Radiology | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | I1F - Standard imaging - other | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 226 - Other diagnostic radiology and related techniques |
| 26 | Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number. | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | GV | Attending physician not employed or paid under arrangement by the patient's hospice provider | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | X5 | Diagnostic services requested by another clinician: for reporting services by a clinician who furnishes care to the patient only as requested by another clinician or subsequent and related services requested by another clinician; this modifier is reported for patient relationships that may not be adequately captured by the above alternative categories; reporting clinician service examples include but are not limited to, the radiologist's interpretation of an imaging study requested by another clinician |
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| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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