Radiology Question for the Week of April 22, 2019

Question:

Former or current welders or other metal workers frequently have orbit x-rays done prior to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to make sure there are no metal fragments in the eye. What diagnosis code would be assigned for this situation?

Answer:

According to Coding Clinic, the appropriate diagnosis code would be Z01.89 (encounter for other specified special examinations). When responding to this question, Coding Clinic referenced ICD-10-CM guideline IV.K, which states: “For encounters for routine laboratory/radiology testing in the absence of any signs, symptoms, or associated diagnosis, assign Z01.89, Encounter for other specified special examinations. If routine testing is performed during the same encounter as a test to evaluate a sign, symptom, or diagnosis, it is appropriate to assign both the Z code and the code describing the reason for the non-routine test.”

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