Upper Arteries (B3) ICD-10-PCS
The B3 body system covers Imaging procedures on upper arteries, with 790 ICD-10-PCS codes across 5 root operations, 780 of them billable in fiscal year 2026. Each root operation defines a distinct procedural objective, and the info icons show the official definition with a preview of the codes inside.
Root Operations in This Body System 5 operations · 790 codes
| Chars 1–3 | Root Operation | Codes | Billable |
|---|---|---|---|
| B30 | Plain RadiographyPlanar display of an image developed from the capture of external ionizing radiation on photographic or photoconductive plate | 210 | 208 |
| B31 | FluoroscopySingle plane or bi-plane real time display of an image developed from the capture of external ionizing radiation on fluorescent screen. The image may also be stored by either digital or analog means | 380 | 378 |
| B32 | Computerized Tomography (CT Scan)Computer-reformatted digital display of multiplanar images developed from the capture of multiple exposures of external ionizing radiation | 72 | 70 |
| B33 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)Computer reformatted digital display of multiplanar images developed from the capture of radio frequency signals emitted by nuclei in a body site excited within a magnetic field | 62 | 60 |
| B34 | UltrasonographyReal time display of images of anatomy or flow information developed from the capture of reflected and attenuated high frequency sound waves | 66 | 64 |
The info icon shows the official root operation definition and previews the codes in that range.
About the B3 Body System
The ICD-10-PCS root operation code B3 refers to imaging procedures specifically targeting the Upper Arteries. This classification under Imaging involves creating detailed visual representations of arterial structures without invasive exploration.
Various imaging techniques are included under the upper arteries codes to capture and display arterial anatomy. For example, Plain Radiography (B30) uses external ionizing radiation to produce planar images on photographic plates. Fluoroscopy (B31) provides real-time single or bi-plane continuous x-ray imaging, allowing for dynamic observation. Computerized Tomography (CT Scan) (B32) offers detailed multiplanar digital images reconstructed from multiple exposures, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (B33) utilizes radiofrequency signals within magnetic fields to generate detailed multiplanar images without radiation. Lastly, Ultrasonography (B34) employs high-frequency sound waves to visualize arterial anatomy and flow in real time. These codes ensure precise documentation of non-invasive imaging methods applied to the upper arterial system.
Questions About This Page
How many codes are in the B3 body system?
The B3 body system contains 790 ICD-10-PCS codes in FY 2026, organized into 5 root operations. 780 of them are billable on inpatient claims.
What is a root operation?
The root operation is the third character of every ICD-10-PCS code and names the objective of the procedure. Drainage takes fluid out, Excision cuts out a portion of a body part, and Resection removes all of one. Picking the right root operation is the central skill of PCS coding, so each one above carries its official CMS definition.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2026 ICD-10-PCS order file and code tables, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
