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Code deleted. See 77067.

Official Description

Screening mammography, bilateral (2-view study of each breast)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

This CPT® code 77057 refers to a bilateral screening mammography procedure, which involves taking two views of each breast. Mammography is a specialized form of radiographic imaging that utilizes low-dose ionizing radiation to create images of the breast tissue. The technique is designed to detect early signs of breast cancer in women who do not exhibit any symptoms or palpable masses. During the procedure, the breast is placed between two plates on a mammography machine, which is specifically designed for this purpose. This compression serves multiple functions: it evens out the dense breast tissue, reduces the thickness of the breast, and stabilizes it to minimize movement, thereby enhancing the quality of the images obtained. The two-view study means that each breast is imaged from two different angles, which increases the likelihood of identifying any abnormalities that may not be visible from a single view. Screening mammograms are crucial for early detection of breast cancer, as they can identify tumors that are too small to be felt during a physical examination.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® code 77057 is indicated for the following:

  • Asymptomatic Women Screening mammography is performed on women who do not exhibit any symptoms of breast disease, such as lumps or pain, to facilitate early detection of breast cancer.
  • Early Breast Cancer Detection The primary purpose of this procedure is to identify breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® code 77057 involves several key steps that ensure the effective imaging of breast tissue:

  • Patient Preparation The patient is instructed to remove any clothing or accessories that may interfere with the imaging process, particularly from the waist up. The patient is then positioned in front of the mammography machine, where they will stand for the duration of the procedure.
  • Breast Compression The technologist will place one breast at a time between two plates of the mammography machine. The plates will compress the breast tissue to create a uniform thickness, which is essential for obtaining high-quality images. This compression may cause temporary discomfort but is necessary for optimal imaging.
  • Image Acquisition Two views of each breast are taken: one from the top (craniocaudal view) and one from the side (mediolateral oblique view). The technologist will ensure that the images are clear and that the entire breast is captured in the images. The process is repeated for the second breast.
  • Image Review After the images are obtained, the technologist will review them to ensure that they meet the quality standards required for diagnostic purposes. If the images are not satisfactory, additional views may be taken.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the screening mammography, patients are typically advised to resume their normal activities immediately. There are no specific post-procedure care instructions required, as the procedure is non-invasive and does not involve any recovery time. Patients may be informed that they will receive the results of their mammogram within a few days, and if any abnormalities are detected, further diagnostic procedures may be recommended. It is also common for patients to be encouraged to continue regular breast self-examinations and to schedule follow-up mammograms as recommended by their healthcare provider.

Short Descr MAMMOGRAM SCREENING
Medium Descr SCREENING MAMMOGRAPHY BILATERAL
Long Descr Screening mammography, bilateral (2-view study of each breast)
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 9 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
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 Service Paid under Fee Schedule or Payment System other than OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) I1A - Standard imaging - chest
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 182 - Mammography
Date
Action
Notes
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted. See 77067.
2016-01-01 Changed Description Changed
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2007-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2007.
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