Summary & Overview
CPT 74262: CT Colonography With Contrast
CPT code 74262 identifies a computed tomography (CT) study of the colon performed with contrast. This diagnostic imaging code is used nationally to capture services that provide detailed cross-sectional visualization of the colon for evaluation of structural abnormalities, obstructive symptoms, or further characterization after other imaging. Accurate coding of CT colon studies affects clinical documentation, billing consistency, and resource allocation across health systems and payers.
Key payers referenced in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of clinical context for CT colon imaging, billing benchmarks where available, common coding and billing considerations, and how reimbursement and coverage patterns can vary across major national payers. The publication also outlines operational settings where this service is typically delivered and highlights implications for radiology service lines, utilization management, and documentation practices.
Data not provided in the input (such as payer-specific rates, associated taxonomies, or ICD-10 mappings) are noted as unavailable; the report focuses on national-level clinical and coding context for CPT code 74262.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 74262 describes a computed tomography (CT) examination of the colon performed with the use of contrast material. This service uses CT imaging technology to visualize the colonic lumen and wall after administration of contrast to enhance anatomical detail.
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Service type: Diagnostic CT imaging of the colon with contrast
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Typical site of service: Outpatient imaging center or hospital radiology department
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 62-year-old patient with intermittent rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits, and a positive fecal immunochemical test is referred for colonic imaging. The gastroenterologist orders computed tomography colonography to evaluate for colorectal neoplasia, polyps, or obstructive lesions when optical colonoscopy is incomplete or contraindicated. The patient presents to an outpatient radiology suite or hospital radiology department on the scheduled date. After pre-procedure screening for allergies and renal function, bowel preparation and insufflation of the colon with carbon dioxide are performed by trained technologists under radiologist supervision. Intravenous contrast is administered per protocol unless contraindicated. Thin-slice CT images of the abdomen and pelvis are acquired in supine and prone positions. The radiologist performs image reconstruction, interpretation, and issues a diagnostic report documenting findings such as polyps, masses, or diverticulosis. Typical sites of service include an outpatient radiology center, hospital radiology department, or ambulatory surgical center when performed with sedation or additional services.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | Use when billing the interpreting physician's service separate from technical imaging when the facility bills the technical component. |