Non-Axial Lower Bones (BQ) ICD-10-PCS
The BQ body system covers Imaging procedures on non-axial lower bones, with 498 ICD-10-PCS codes across 5 root operations, 488 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 · 498 codes
| Chars 1–3 | Root Operation | Codes | Billable |
|---|---|---|---|
| BQ0 | Plain RadiographyPlanar display of an image developed from the capture of external ionizing radiation on photographic or photoconductive plate | 94 | 92 |
| BQ1 | 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 | 90 | 88 |
| BQ2 | Computerized Tomography (CT Scan)Computer-reformatted digital display of multiplanar images developed from the capture of multiple exposures of external ionizing radiation | 190 | 188 |
| BQ3 | 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 | 110 | 108 |
| BQ4 | UltrasonographyReal time display of images of anatomy or flow information developed from the capture of reflected and attenuated high frequency sound waves | 14 | 12 |
The info icon shows the official root operation definition and previews the codes in that range.
About the BQ Body System
The ICD-10-PCS root operation Non-Axial Lower Bones under the Imaging section refers to various diagnostic techniques used to visualize lower skeletal structures beyond the main axial skeleton. This operation captures key imaging modalities tailored specifically for assessing bones such as the femur, tibia, and fibula.
The provided codes illustrate different imaging methods, including Plain Radiography (BQ0), which uses external ionizing radiation to create planar images on photographic plates. Fluoroscopy (BQ1) offers real-time dynamic images through a fluorescent screen, useful for functional assessments. Advanced techniques like Computerized Tomography (CT Scan) (BQ2) produce detailed multiplanar digital images based on multiple radiation exposures, while Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (BQ3) employs magnetic fields and radio frequency signals to generate detailed soft tissue contrast in lower bones. Ultrasonography (BQ4) provides real-time imaging by capturing reflected high-frequency sound waves. These codes enable precise documentation of imaging procedures targeting non-axial lower bones, essential for accurate clinical evaluation and coding.
Questions About This Page
How many codes are in the BQ body system?
The BQ body system contains 498 ICD-10-PCS codes in FY 2026, organized into 5 root operations. 488 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.
