Summary & Overview
HCPCS Level II S8092: Electron Beam Computed Tomography (Ultrafast/Cine CT)
HCPCS Level II code S8092 represents electron beam computed tomography (also called ultrafast CT or cine CT), a diagnostic imaging modality notable for very rapid image acquisition and high temporal resolution. Nationally, this code matters for payers and providers involved in advanced cardiac and time-sensitive diagnostic imaging where motion artifact reduction and temporal fidelity are priorities.
Key payers in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for electron beam CT, the typical sites where the service is delivered, and payer considerations. The publication outlines common billing modifiers and payer coverage patterns used with this service, benchmarks for utilization and reimbursement where available, and policy or coding updates that affect claim adjudication.
This summary provides clinicians, billing professionals, and policy analysts with practical context: what S8092 denotes, why ultrafast CT is used clinically, and which major payers typically cover or process claims for this service. Data not available in the input is identified explicitly in relevant sections.
Billing Code Overview
HCPCS Level II code S8092 denotes electron beam computed tomography, also referred to as ultrafast CT or cine CT. This service uses a specialized CT scanner capable of very rapid image acquisition, often employed for cardiac imaging and other applications requiring high temporal resolution.
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Service type: Diagnostic imaging procedure using electron beam CT technology
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Typical site of service: Imaging centers and hospital outpatient departments
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is a 58-year-old male with multiple cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, family history of premature coronary artery disease) referred for noninvasive coronary calcium scoring and assessment of coronary atherosclerotic burden. The patient arrives at the outpatient radiology or cardiology imaging center after a brief screening for contraindications (pregnancy, inability to lie flat, body habitus limits). Vital signs are obtained and an IV is typically not required. The technologist reviews prior imaging and confirms the indication in the electronic medical record. The procedure, billed as S8092 (electron beam computed tomography), is performed on an ultrafast CT scanner with the patient in supine position using ECG gating as indicated. Images are acquired during a single breath-hold and processed to generate Agatston calcium scores and axial/coronal reformats. A radiologist or cardiologist interprets the study, documents findings including Agatston score, extent and distribution of coronary calcification, and provides a report to the referring provider. The clinical workflow may include scheduling, pre-procedure screening, image acquisition (no contrast for routine calcium scoring), post-processing, formal read, and communication of results to the ordering clinician for risk stratification and management decisions.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component |