CPT® Code 74010 | Case2Code

Code deleted, see 74019, 74021.

Official Description

Radiologic examination, abdomen; anteroposterior and additional oblique and cone views

Common Language Description

A radiologic examination of the abdomen, designated by CPT® Code 74010, involves the use of X-ray technology to create images of the internal structures within the abdominal cavity. This procedure captures detailed images of various components, including internal organs, soft tissues such as muscles and fat, and the supporting skeletal framework. The process utilizes indirect ionizing radiation, which interacts with the body's tissues of varying densities and compositions. As X-rays pass through the body, some are absorbed while others are transmitted, resulting in a two-dimensional representation of the anatomical structures on a detector. This imaging technique is essential for evaluating the size, shape, and position of organs, as well as identifying patterns of air, potential obstructions, foreign objects, and calcifications in critical areas such as the gallbladder, urinary tract, and aorta. The examination may be indicated for a variety of clinical scenarios, including the assessment of abdominal distention and pain, episodes of vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, and evaluation of traumatic injuries. Additionally, it can serve as a preliminary screening tool or scout film prior to more advanced imaging procedures. The distinction between CPT® Code 74000 and CPT® Code 74010 is significant; while Code 74000 pertains to a single anteroposterior (AP) view of the abdomen, either in a supine or erect position, Code 74010 encompasses not only the AP view but also additional oblique views, which involve rotating the patient to capture images from different angles, as well as coned views that focus on specific areas to better localize and differentiate between lesions, calcifications, or herniations.

1. Indications

The radiologic examination of the abdomen using CPT® Code 74010 is indicated for various clinical conditions and symptoms, including:

Abdominal Distention - This examination helps in identifying the underlying causes of swelling or bloating in the abdominal area.
Abdominal Pain - It is utilized to diagnose the source of pain within the abdomen, which may arise from various organs or conditions.
Vomiting - The procedure can assist in determining the cause of persistent vomiting, which may be related to gastrointestinal obstructions or other issues.
Diarrhea or Constipation - It aids in evaluating abnormalities that may contribute to changes in bowel habits.
Traumatic Injury - Following an injury, this examination is crucial for assessing potential internal damage to abdominal organs.
Screening Exam - It may be performed as a preliminary assessment before more advanced imaging techniques are utilized.

2. Procedure

The procedure for a radiologic examination of the abdomen as described by CPT® Code 74010 involves several key steps:

Patient Positioning - The patient is positioned either supine (lying flat) or erect (standing) to obtain the anteroposterior (AP) view of the abdomen. Proper positioning is essential to ensure accurate imaging of the abdominal structures.
Initial Anteroposterior View - An initial AP view is captured, which provides a baseline image of the abdomen. This view is critical for assessing the overall anatomy and identifying any immediate concerns.
Oblique Views - Following the AP view, additional oblique views are obtained. The patient is rotated to various angles to capture images that provide a more comprehensive view of the abdominal organs and structures. These views are particularly useful for localizing lesions or abnormalities that may not be clearly visible in the standard AP view.
Coned Views - Coned views, which involve collimating the X-ray beam to focus on specific areas of interest, are performed to enhance the visibility of particular structures. This step is crucial for differentiating between various pathologies, such as calcifications or herniations.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the radiologic examination, the patient may be advised to resume normal activities unless otherwise directed by the physician. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements associated with this examination. However, the physician will review the obtained images to interpret the findings and determine if any further diagnostic steps or treatments are necessary based on the results. Patients may be informed about the expected timeline for receiving results and any follow-up appointments that may be required.

Short Descr	X-RAY EXAM OF ABDOMEN
Medium Descr	RADEX ABD ANTEROPOST&ADDL OBLQ&CONE VIEWS
Long Descr	Radiologic examination, abdomen; anteroposterior and additional oblique and cone views
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
Type of Service (TOS)	4 - Diagnostic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	I1F - Standard imaging - other
MUE	Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification	226 - Other diagnostic radiology and related techniques