T17.218D — Gastric contents in pharynx causing other injury, subsequent encounter
ICD-10-CM
Prior Authorization
No Prior Auth Required
Code is covered without prior authorization (high confidence)
Documentation Required
- Claims for swallowing studies should include documentation consistent with LCD L33449; this billing guideline is a complement to that LCD and providers should retain medical records supporting the medical necessity of the dysphagia evaluation.
- Medical records must include history and physical notes, laboratory results, and documentation of signs and symptoms that warrant the head/neck diagnostic imaging.
- Accurate HCPCS/CPT coding must be submitted to differentiate CT and MRI scans from other radiology services and to support coverage determinations.
- Documentation and supporting information must be available to Medicare upon request.
Key Coverage Criteria
- Swallowing studies (videofluoroscopic or radiologic studies described by CPT 70370, 70371, or 74230) performed for evaluation or diagnosis of dysphagia are the intended covered service per this billing guideline and LCD L33449.
- CT or MRI scans of the head or neck are covered when the medical record documents the scan is reasonable and necessary for diagnostic evaluation.
- Coverage requires documentation supporting clinical indication such as history and physical exam findings, laboratory results, and signs or symptoms that justify the diagnostic test.
- G71.21 | Nemaline myopathy
- G83.0 | Diplegia of upper limbs
- H44.19 | Other endophthalmitis
6 Active Policies
A57215 — Billing and Coding: MRI and CT Scans of the Head and Neck
A56621 — Billing and Coding: Swallowing Studies for Dysphagia
A57204 — Billing and Coding: MRI and CT Scans of the Head and Neck
L33449 — Swallowing Studies for Dysphagia
L35175 — MRI and CT Scans of the Head and Neck
Related Codes
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