Current Procedural Terminology codes, or CPT codes, are a set of standardized medical codes used to describe the procedures and services that clinics and hospitals perform. Created by the American Medical Association in the mid-1960s, CPT codes are used in the United States for documentation, billing, and research purposes.
This article is a quick reference guide on some of the most commonly used CPT codes across medicine.
Common CPT Codes Explained
With tens of thousands of CPT codes, it’s nearly impossible to know each one. However, it’s worthwhile to be familiar with some of the most common ones, which are often the MRI CPT codes, radiology CPT codes, anesthesia CPT codes, and physical therapy CPT codes.
Here is a list of some of the most commonly searched CPT codes organized by category:
Diagnostic CPT Codes:
CPT Code 72148
This is by far one of the most commonly used CPT codes. It’s for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine, lumbar region, without contrast material.
CPT Code 73721
Similar to the last code, this CPT code is for MRI of the lower extremity other than joints, without contrast material.
CPT Code 74183
MRI of the abdomen, with and without contrast material.
CPT Code 72197
MRI of the pelvis, with and without contrast material.
CPT Code 71250
Computed tomography (CT) image of the thorax, without contrast material.
CPT Code 71275
CT angiography of the chest (excluding coronary), with contrast materials. This CPT code can include noncontrast images if they are performed concurrently.
CPT Code 75574
CT angiography of the heart and coronary arteries (and bypass grafts if applicable), with contrast material. This code includes 3D image post-processing.
Laboratory CPT Codes:
CPT Code 80053
Comprehensive metabolic panel, which includes multiple blood tests to assess overall health and to detect various conditions.
CPT Code 83036
This CPT code is commonly ordered to monitor long-term glucose control in diabetic patients by measuring Hemoglobin A1c.
CPT Code 82306
This is used to measure the level of Vitamin D in the blood (which includes 25-hydroxyvitamin D and all other fractions).
Preventive Services CPT Codes:
CPT Code g0463
This is one of the broadest codes as it’s described as a hospital outpatient clinic visit for assessment and management of a patient.
CPT Code g0439
The annual wellness visit CPT code, including a personalized prevention plan of service (PPPS) and subsequent visits.
Surgical Procedures CPT Codes:
CPT Code 45380
Colonoscopy with single or multiple biopsy.
CPT Code 45385
Colonoscopy with removal of tumors, polyps, or other lesions using the snare technique.
CPT Code 66984
Cataract removal with the insertion of a prosthetic lens (one-stage procedure), using either manual or mechanical techniques.
CPT Code 58571
Total hysterectomy for a uterus (250 grams or less) via laparoscopic procedure, with the removal of the ovaries and/or fallopian tubes.
CPT Code 58661
Laparoscopic procedure that includes removing adnexal (adjoining) structures, including but not limited to partial or total oophorectomy (ovary removal) and/or salpingectomy (fallopian tube removal).
CPT Code 49591
Repair of an anterior abdominal hernia (3cm to 10cm) with graft or prosthesis.
Anesthesia and Pain Management CPT Codes:
CPT Code 64493
A therapeutic or diagnostic injection into the paravertebral facet (zygapophyseal) joint or its innervating nerves in the lumbar or sacral region. This procedure is sometimes used to reduce inflammation or pain along the spinal cord.
CPT Code 64450
An anesthetic agent injection into a peripheral nerve or branch.
CPT Code 62321
Any injections, drainage, or aspiration procedure on the spine or spinal cord.
Obstetrics and Gynecology CPT Codes:
CPT Code 59400
Routine obstetric care including antepartum care, vaginal delivery (with or without episiotomy, and/or forceps), and postpartum care. Essentially, this is the CPT code that follows pregnant people throughout their birthing journey.
Minor Procedures CPT Codes:
CPT Code 10060
Incision and drainage of a single or simple abscess. This is commonly used by dermatologists and emergency room physicians.
CPT Code 17110
Destruction of up to 14 benign lesions other than skin tags or cutaneous vascular proliferative lesions.
CPT Code 76942
Needle placement (for biopsy, aspiration, injection, localization device, etc.) via ultrasonic guidance with supervision and interpretation.
Endocrinology and Metabolism CPT Codes:
CPT Code 77080
Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) bone density scan, one or more sites; axial skeleton (examples like pelvis, spine, or hip).
Nuclear Medicine CPT Codes:
CPT Code 78815
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with concurrently acquired computed tomography (CT) for tumor imaging.
Ultrasound CPT Codes:
CPT Code 76705
Abdominal ultrasound, real-time with image documentation; limited (meaning it’s only for a single organ, abdominal quadrant, or follow up scans).
CPT Code 76882
Limited ultrasound evaluation of joint or focal structure in an extremity, including a soft-tissue mass, fluid collection, or nerve.
Genetic Testing and Miscellaneous:
CPT Code 81479
Unlisted molecular pathology procedure. It’s the default CPT code used when there are multiple genes being tested.
CPT Code j3301
Injection of a 10mg triamcinolone acetonide, a topical steroid used to treat inflammation.
Understanding How Doctors Are Paid:
Understanding CPT codes is crucial for comprehending how physicians make their hard-earned living. These 31 common CPT codes are the foundation of medical billing and reimbursements, as each CPT code corresponds to a specific medical service or procedure, allowing healthcare providers to document what was performed accurately.
By familiarizing yourself with these codes, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complex world of medical billing, advocate for appropriate reimbursement, and contribute to the financial sustainability of your practice.
Don’t wait until you’re in the thick of your career; start learning about CPT codes now to secure a smoother, more successful professional journey. Your future practice and peace of mind will thank you!
If you’re interested in learning how different specialties operate in academic, private practice, and community settings, make sure to check out our So You Want to Be series, which breaks down the many different specialties and career paths in medicine.
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