CPT® Code 73100

A radiologic examination of the wrist, designated by CPT® Code 73100, involves the use of X-ray imaging to capture detailed images of the wrist's internal structures. This procedure utilizes indirect ionizing radiation, which is effective in producing images of non-uniform materials such as human tissue. The varying densities and compositions of the tissues allow some X-rays to be absorbed while others pass through, resulting in a two-dimensional representation of the wrist's anatomy. The primary purpose of this examination is to identify various conditions that may affect the wrist, including fractures, dislocations, deformities, arthritis, foreign bodies, infections, or tumors. Standard views for wrist radiography typically include the anteroposterior (AP) view, which captures images from front to back, and the posteroanterior (PA) view, which captures images from back to front. Additionally, a lateral view is obtained with the elbow flexed and the hand positioned with the thumb facing up. Oblique views can also be taken, where the wrist is either supinated or pronated, and slightly flexed to ensure that the carpal area is flat, followed by a 45-degree rotation of the wrist. For more specialized assessments, such as evaluating the carpal tunnel, a specific view is employed where the forearm is pronated, the palm is facing down, and the wrist is hyperextended to achieve a near-vertical position of the metacarpals and fingers. It is important to report CPT® Code 73100 for an X-ray examination consisting of two views, while CPT® Code 73110 should be used for a complete wrist examination that includes a minimum of three views.