CPT® Code 73520 | Case2Code

Official Description

Radiologic examination, hips, bilateral, minimum of 2 views of each hip, including anteroposterior view of pelvis

Common Language Description

A radiologic examination of the hips, specifically coded as CPT® 73520, involves the use of X-ray imaging to obtain detailed images of both hips. This procedure utilizes indirect ionizing radiation, which allows for the visualization of internal structures within the body. X-rays are particularly effective for examining non-uniform materials, such as human tissue, due to the varying densities and compositions present. As X-rays pass through the body, some are absorbed while others are transmitted, resulting in a two-dimensional image captured on a detector. This imaging technique is essential for diagnosing a variety of conditions affecting the hips, including fractures, dislocations, deformities, degenerative bone diseases, osteomyelitis, arthritis, foreign bodies, infections, and tumors. The standard views typically obtained during this examination include the anteroposterior (AP) view, which is taken with the patient lying supine, legs straight, and slightly rotated inward. Additionally, the lateral 'frog-leg' view is commonly performed, where the hips are flexed and abducted, with the knees bent and the soles of the feet together. A cross-table view may also be utilized, positioning the unaffected hip and knee at a 90-degree angle to allow for unobstructed imaging of the affected side. Another lateral view can be captured with the hip flexed and abducted at 45 degrees, ensuring the X-ray beam is directed perpendicular to the table. The CPT® code 73520 specifically denotes an X-ray examination of both hips that includes a minimum of two distinct projections for each hip, with the requirement of an anteroposterior view of the pelvis while the patient is in a supine position with legs slightly rotated inward.

1. Indications

The radiologic examination of the hips, coded as CPT® 73520, is indicated for a variety of clinical conditions and symptoms that may affect the hip region. These indications include:

Fractures - To assess for any breaks in the bone structure of the hips.
Dislocations - To evaluate the positioning of the hip joint and any dislocation that may have occurred.
Deformities - To identify any abnormal shapes or structures in the hip area.
Degenerative bone conditions - To examine changes in the bone due to wear and tear over time.
Osteomyelitis - To detect any infection in the bone that may be affecting the hips.
Arthritis - To evaluate joint inflammation and degeneration that may be present in the hip joints.
Foreign body - To locate any foreign objects that may have entered the hip area.
Infection - To assess for signs of infection in the hip region.
Tumor - To identify any abnormal growths or masses in the hip area.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® 73520 involves several key steps to ensure accurate imaging of both hips. The following procedural steps are typically followed:

Step 1: Patient Positioning - The patient is positioned supine on the X-ray table. This means they lie flat on their back, which is essential for obtaining the anteroposterior view of the pelvis. The legs are straightened and rotated slightly inward, approximately 15 degrees, to optimize the imaging of the hip joints.
Step 2: Anteroposterior View - An X-ray is taken from the front to the back (anteroposterior view) of the pelvis and hips. This view is crucial for visualizing the overall structure of the hip joints and identifying any potential abnormalities.
Step 3: Additional Projections - At least one additional view of each hip is obtained to provide a comprehensive assessment. This may include the lateral 'frog-leg' view, where the hips are flexed and abducted, or a cross-table view, which allows for imaging of the affected hip while the opposite hip and knee are flexed at a 90-degree angle.
Step 4: Image Capture - The X-ray machine captures the images, which are then processed to create clear radiographs of the hips. The radiologist will review these images for any signs of the conditions indicated.

3. Post-Procedure

After the radiologic examination is completed, the patient may be instructed to resume normal activities unless otherwise advised by the healthcare provider. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements associated with this imaging study. However, the healthcare provider may discuss the results of the X-rays with the patient during a follow-up appointment, where any necessary treatment plans or further evaluations can be established based on the findings.

Short Descr	X-RAY EXAM OF HIPS
Medium Descr	RADEX HIPS BILATERAL 2 VIEWS ANTEROPOST PELVIS
Long Descr	Radiologic examination, hips, bilateral, minimum of 2 views of each hip, including anteroposterior view of pelvis
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)	2 - 150% payment adjustment 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
Type of Service (TOS)	4 - Diagnostic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	I1B - Standard imaging - musculoskeletal
MUE	Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification	226 - Other diagnostic radiology and related techniques