Summary & Overview
HCPCS Level II C1770: Imaging Coil, Magnetic Resonance (Insertable)
HCPCS Level II code C1770 denotes an insertable magnetic resonance imaging coil, a specialized device used to improve image resolution and signal quality for targeted MRI procedures. This device-level code matters nationally because it affects billing for MR imaging where insertable coils are required for diagnostic quality and may influence supply costs and device tracking across imaging sites. Key payers in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare.
Readers will find a concise explanation of what C1770 represents, the clinical and operational contexts where insertable MR coils are used, and the typical sites of service such as hospital outpatient imaging departments, ambulatory surgical centers, and outpatient radiology centers. The publication also summarizes payer coverage patterns and common billing modifiers associated with device and procedural billing when available.
The piece provides national-level benchmarks and policy context relevant to device reporting and reimbursement, highlights areas where coding clarity is important for accurate claims submission, and outlines where additional documentation is often necessary for payers to adjudicate claims. Data not available in the input is indicated where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
HCPCS Level II code C1770 describes an imaging coil, magnetic resonance (insertable). This device is an insertable MR imaging coil used to enhance signal reception and image quality for targeted magnetic resonance examinations.
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Service type: Device supply for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
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Typical site of service: Hospital outpatient imaging departments, ambulatory surgical centers, and outpatient radiology centers
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Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient with a suspected intracranial or spinal pathology is scheduled for an advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study that requires an insertable imaging coil. Typical patients include adults presenting with focal neurologic deficits, known or suspected brain neoplasm, postoperative surveillance after tumor resection, or spinal cord lesion evaluation where a specialized insertable coil (for example, an endorectal coil for prostate is not applicable here; this refers to insertable MR coils for targeted anatomy such as intraoperative or intra-cavity applications) is indicated to improve signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution.
Clinical workflow: The patient is evaluated by a neuroradiologist or MRI technologist team who determine the need for a specialized insertable MR coil based on diagnostic goals. Pre-procedure screening for MRI safety (implants, pacemakers, ferromagnetic material) and informed consent occur. On the day of service the patient is positioned and the insertable coil is placed by trained staff (radiology technologist or procedure nurse) under sterile technique if required. The MR technologist performs sequences tailored by the radiologist; images are acquired with the insertable coil in place, then the coil is removed and the patient is observed briefly before discharge or transfer. Billing for the insertable imaging coil is reported with C1770 when the device is furnished for the MRI study; associated technical and professional service CPT codes for MRI are billed separately by the performing facility and the interpreting physician, respectively.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
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