How is a single view of the hip reported when a view of the pelvis is included?
The correct answer depends simply on counting the number of views performed.
If a single view of the hip and a single view of the pelvis are both performed they should be reported with code 73502, Radiologic examination, hip, unilateral, with pelvis when
performed; 2-3 views. This is because when a single view of the hip and a single view of the pelvis are performed it consists of 2 views.
The one view hip code 73501, Radiologic examination, hip, unilateral, with pelvis when
performed; 1 view includes the phrase “with pelvis when performed.” Code 73501 is a single view examination and was worded this way to be consistent across the family of hip codes. This service is a single-view hip study that is currently described by both 73500, Radiologic examination, hip, unilateral; 1 view, and 73530, Radiologic examination, hip during operative procedure.
If one were to do a single view of each hip, code 73521, Radiologic examination, hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed; 2 views should be reported. If a pelvis view is added, it is now 3 view study, and one should code 73522, Radiologic examination, hips, bilateral, with pelvis when performed; 3-4 views