Non-Axial Lower Bones (BQ) ICD-10-PCS
The BQ body system covers Imaging procedures on non-axial lower bones, with 249 ICD-10-PCS codes across 5 root operations, 244 of them billable in fiscal year 2027. 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 · 249 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 | 47 | 46 |
| 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 | 45 | 44 |
| BQ2 | Computerized Tomography (CT Scan)Computer-reformatted digital display of multiplanar images developed from the capture of multiple exposures of external ionizing radiation | 95 | 94 |
| 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 | 55 | 54 |
| BQ4 | UltrasonographyReal time display of images of anatomy or flow information developed from the capture of reflected and attenuated high frequency sound waves | 7 | 6 |
The info icon shows the official root operation definition and previews the codes in that range.
About the BQ Body System
These codes describe imaging of the hips and lower limbs, including named bones, joints, feet and toes. The body-part value distinguishes right from left; hips and knees also have bilateral values.
Plain radiography captures a flat image using radiation, while fluoroscopy displays radiation images in real time. CT uses multiple radiation exposures to create views from different planes. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio signals; ultrasonography uses reflected sound waves to show anatomy or flow in real time.
Questions About This Page
How many codes are in the BQ body system?
The BQ body system contains 249 ICD-10-PCS codes in FY 2027, organized into 5 root operations. 244 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 2027 ICD-10-PCS order file and code tables, effective October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027.
