Ask Dr. Z

I would like to get your advice on coding tomosynthesis-guided breast biopsy. Would it be appropriate to use CPT code 19081? Here is the copy of report: "Left tomosynthesis core biopsy: The patient's left breast was positioned in the digital breast tomosynthesis device, and images of the calcifications in the upper outer quadrant were obtained. The breast was prepped for the procedure, and the area was anesthetized with a local anesthetic. Using a vacuum-assisted biopsy device and a lateral approach, six specimens were obtained. A micromarker was placed at the site of the core biopsy. Specimen radiographs showed calcifications in some of the cores. The patient experienced no complications during the procedure. Total anesthesia used during the procedure was 10 cc of 1% lidocaine and 20 cc of 1% lidocaine and epinephrine 1:100,000. A post procedure unilateral digital mammogram obtained to confirm clip location demonstrates the clip is at the biopsy site. IMPRESSION: Left tomosynthesis-guided core biopsy completed."