CPT® Code 77074

The CPT® Code 77074 refers to a radiologic examination specifically designed for an osseous survey, which is a study focused on the bones. This code is utilized when a limited examination is performed, typically targeting a specific symptomatic area or a suspected disease site through X-ray imaging. The term "limited" indicates that the examination does not encompass a comprehensive assessment of the entire skeletal system but rather focuses on particular regions of interest. It is important to note that this type of examination is not commonly employed for the purpose of assessing the spread of cancer, as nuclear bone dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning has largely supplanted traditional X-ray methods for staging bone metastasis. In contrast, the complete osseous survey is represented by CPT® Code 77075, which includes X-rays of both the axial skeleton (comprising the head and trunk) and the appendicular skeleton (the limbs). Additionally, CPT® Code 77076 is designated for radiologic surveys of bones in infants, which may be conducted to investigate potential child abuse, suspected diseases, or bone lesions associated with known medical conditions.