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The CPT® Code 70380 refers to a radiologic examination specifically targeting the salivary glands to identify the presence of calculi, commonly known as stones. These stones, or sialoliths, can form within the salivary glands or their ducts and are typically radiopaque, meaning they can be visualized on diagnostic imaging due to their density. The examination is performed using X-ray technology, which employs indirect ionizing radiation to create images of the internal structures of the body. The X-ray process is effective because it interacts differently with various materials, such as human tissue, based on their density and composition. This differential absorption allows for the creation of a two-dimensional image that highlights the anatomical features of the salivary glands. During the procedure, various views may be captured, including panoramic and occlusal images. A panoramic view provides a comprehensive image of the entire extraoral jaw and facial area, while an occlusal view focuses on the submandibular spaces within the mouth. The resulting images are then analyzed by the physician to locate any suspected stones, which may require further intervention for removal.
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The radiologic examination of the salivary gland for calculus, as indicated by CPT® Code 70380, is performed under specific circumstances where there is a suspicion of sialolithiasis. The following conditions may warrant this examination:
The procedure for conducting a radiologic examination of the salivary gland for calculus involves several key steps to ensure accurate imaging and diagnosis. The following procedural steps are typically followed:
Following the radiologic examination, there are several considerations for post-procedure care. The patient may be advised to resume normal activities unless otherwise directed by the physician. The physician will discuss the findings from the imaging study with the patient, including whether any further intervention is necessary for the removal of calculi. If stones are identified, the patient may be referred for additional treatment options, which could include surgical removal or other therapeutic measures. It is also important for the patient to report any new or worsening symptoms following the procedure, as this may indicate complications that require further evaluation.
| Short Descr | X-RAY EXAM OF SALIVARY GLAND | Medium Descr | RADIOLOGIC EXAMINATION SALIVARY GLAND CALCULUS | Long Descr | Radiologic examination, salivary gland for calculus | 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 | 2 | 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. | LT | Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body) | RT | Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body) | TC | Technical component; under certain circumstances, a charge may be made for the technical component alone; under those circumstances the technical component charge is identified by adding modifier 'tc' to the usual procedure number; technical component charges are institutional charges and not billed separately by physicians; however, portable x-ray suppliers only bill for technical component and should utilize modifier tc; the charge data from portable x-ray suppliers will then be used to build customary and prevailing profiles |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Medium description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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