Summary & Overview
CPT 74470: Contrast Imaging for Renal Cyst Localization
CPT code 74470 represents the imaging supervision and interpretation of a contrast-enhanced radiologic study performed to locate a renal cyst, and it encompasses both the technical and professional components of the service. Nationally, this code is relevant for hospital radiology departments, outpatient imaging centers, and physician practices that provide contrast nephrography or related renal imaging exams. Proper coding ensures accurate capture of imaging services distinct from procedures involving therapeutic intervention.
Key payers typically considered in coverage and reimbursement discussions include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for the procedure, typical sites of service, and common modifiers used with this imaging service. The publication also provides benchmarking context and coding guidance, including how the code is used to represent purely imaging supervision and interpretation when both components are reported together.
This analysis is intended for a national audience and focuses on coding definition, clinical relevance, and payer coverage considerations. Data not provided in the input—such as associated taxonomies, specific ICD-10 pairings, and payer-specific payment rates—is identified as not available in the input.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 74470 describes imaging supervision and interpretation for a radiologic procedure that uses contrast to locate a renal cyst. This code represents both the technical and professional components of the service and is reported when the provider's involvement is limited to imaging supervision and interpretation for that specific contrast study.
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Service type: Radiologic imaging supervision and interpretation for contrast-enhanced renal cyst localization
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Typical site of service: Radiology department or outpatient imaging center
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 58-year-old patient with a history of incidental renal mass on ultrasound is referred for contrast-enhanced radiologic localization of a suspected renal cyst prior to percutaneous drainage. The patient presents to a hospital outpatient imaging suite (typical site of service: outpatient radiology department or ambulatory surgical center) after pre-procedure screening and informed consent. The radiologist or qualified physician supervises intravenous administration of iodinated contrast, performs fluoroscopic and radiographic imaging to delineate cyst anatomy, and interprets the images to confirm cyst location and characteristics. The report documents imaging findings, contrast usage, and any technical factors. The billed service represents both the technical and professional components of the imaging supervision and interpretation for localization of the renal cyst using contrast (74470).
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | When billing only the interpretation by the physician separate from technical component |
TC | Technical component |