CPT code 77046 refers to a medical imaging test that takes pictures of one breast using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without using a special dye called contrast. CPT 77046 represents “Magnetic resonance imaging, breast, without contrast material; unilateral.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves taking detailed images of one breast using a powerful machine called an MRI scanner. It doesn’t involve injecting any contrast dye, which is a substance that helps highlight certain areas in the images. This test is focused only on one breast at a time and does not include any additional imaging techniques or biopsies.
Common Names:
- Unilateral Breast MRI without Contrast
- Single Breast MRI
- MRI Breast No Contrast
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 1.45.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Breast MRI without contrast (one side)
- Surgical Consent Form Name: MRI scan of one breast without dye
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This MRI procedure is commonly used for patients who need an in-depth examination of one breast. It might be recommended for women who have a history of breast issues, such as lumps detected during a mammogram, or for monitoring patients with a prior history of breast cancer. For example, it can be helpful for those experiencing unusual changes in one breast that deserve closer inspection.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- N63: This code is used when a patient has an unspecified lump in their breast, which means the lump has been found but hasn’t been diagnosed yet.
- C50.911: This code refers to the detection of malignant (cancerous) cells found in the upper portion of the right breast.
- D48.60: This code represents a non-cancerous growth located in the connective and other soft tissue of the chest.
Summary
In summary, code 77046 describes an MRI scan of one breast without using any contrast dye. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 77046 include N63 (unspecified lump in breast) and C50.911 (right breast cancerous growth in the upper part).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.