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A radiologic examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, designated by CPT® Code 74241, involves the use of X-ray imaging to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, which is the initial segment of the small intestine. This procedure employs indirect ionizing radiation to capture images of the body's internal structures, specifically targeting areas where there are variations in density and composition, such as human tissues. The X-ray technology allows for some rays to be absorbed by denser materials while others pass through, resulting in a two-dimensional representation of the anatomical features. This examination is crucial for diagnosing various gastrointestinal conditions, including ulcers, tumors, inflammation, hiatal hernias, scarring, obstructions, and any abnormal positioning or configuration of the organs. Patients typically present with a range of symptoms that may prompt this examination, including difficulty swallowing, chest or abdominal pain, vomiting, reflux, indigestion, or the presence of blood in the stool. The procedure generally commences with an anteroposterior (AP) scout film, which is a preliminary X-ray taken from front to back while the patient is either standing (erect) or lying down (supine). This initial imaging includes a KUB (kidneys, ureters, and bladder) view. Following this, the patient ingests a contrast medium orally, which is monitored under fluoroscopy as it travels through the esophagus into the stomach and duodenum. Spot films may be captured as needed during this process. Additionally, medications may be administered to either accelerate or delay the movement of the gastrointestinal tract and the contrast material. In cases where the movement is particularly slow, or to confirm the complete emptying of the contrast from the upper GI tract, delayed images may be necessary. It is important to note that CPT® Code 74240 is used for a similar radiologic examination of the upper GI tract without the KUB component, while CPT® Code 74241 is specifically designated for procedures that include the KUB imaging.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The radiologic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract, as described by CPT® Code 74241, is indicated for a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms and conditions. These include:
The procedure for a radiologic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract with KUB involves several key steps:
After the completion of the radiologic examination, patients may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the contrast media. It is common for patients to be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast material from their system. Additionally, they may be informed about potential side effects, such as mild abdominal discomfort or changes in bowel habits, which can occur following the procedure. Patients should also be instructed to report any unusual symptoms, such as severe pain or allergic reactions, to their healthcare provider. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results of the examination and any further diagnostic or therapeutic steps that may be necessary based on the findings.
Short Descr | X-RAY UPPER GI DELAY W/KUB | Medium Descr | RADEX GI TRACT UPPER W/WO DELAYED IMAGES W/KUB | Long Descr | Radiologic examination, gastrointestinal tract, upper; with or without delayed images, with KUB | 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) | I1D - Standard imaging - contrast gastrointestinal | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 185 - Upper gastrointestinal X-ray |
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2019-12-31 | Deleted | Code deleted, see 74240 |
2016-01-01 | Changed | Description Changed |
2013-01-01 | Changed | Short Descriptor changed. |
2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |