Final answer:
Use modifier -TC to code only the technical component of a diagnostic procedure. This modifier indicates the provision of the technical aspect, such as equipment and technician's work, separate from the professional service interpreted by a physician or specialist.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you are coding only the technical component of a diagnostic procedure, you would use the modifier -TC. This modifier is added to a procedure code to indicate that only the technical aspect (which includes things like supplies, equipment, and technical staff) was provided. For example, imaging services are often split into technical and professional components where the radiologist's interpretation is billed separately using modifier -26, while the use of equipment and technician's work is billed with modifier -TC. The other modifiers, such as -51 (Multiple Procedures) and -59 (Distinct Procedural Service), serve different purposes in medical coding.