CPT® Code 71020

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A radiologic examination of the chest, identified by CPT® Code 71020, involves the use of X-ray technology to capture images of the chest area, which includes vital structures such as the heart, lungs, bronchi, major blood vessels (including the aorta, vena cava, and pulmonary vessels), and the surrounding bones (such as the sternum, ribs, clavicle, scapula, and spine). This procedure is essential for diagnosing various conditions affecting the thoracic cavity. In this specific examination, two distinct views are obtained: the frontal view, where the patient faces the X-ray machine, and the lateral view, where the patient is turned to position the side of the chest in front of the X-ray source. Each view requires a brief exposure to radiation, which is necessary to produce the images that can either be recorded on traditional film or stored as digital images for further analysis. The clarity and detail provided by these images are crucial for healthcare professionals in assessing the health of the chest structures and identifying any abnormalities or diseases that may be present.