AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2012 Issue 1 (Winter)
Q&As
Questions and Answers Question: Answer: Is it appropriate to report CPT code 76998 in conjunction with a renal angioplasty when the physician uses ultrasound guidance in the OR to access the vessel? No. CPT code 76998 , Ultrasonic guidance, intraoperative, should not be used to report the ultrasonic guidance used for vascular access. The appropriate code to report ultrasound guidance to achieve vascular access is code 76937 , Ultrasound guidance for vascular access requiring ultrasound evaluation of potential access sites, documentation of selected vessel patency, concurrent realtime ultrasound visualization of vascular needle entry, with permanent recording and reporting (List separately in...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article compiles radiology coding questions and answers focused on how common imaging services are documented and reported. It is useful for radiology coders, billing staff, and physicians who need to understand the scope of guidance discussed by CPT and professional practice references for ultrasound and CT services.
Why This Topic Matters
The article helps readers distinguish between broad imaging services and the documentation expectations that affect whether a study or guidance service is reportable. It is especially relevant for anyone reviewing radiology reports, procedure notes, or medical necessity support.
Article Sections
-
Ultrasound guidance for vascular access during interventional radiology procedures
This section addresses a question about intraoperative ultrasound use during a vascular procedure and references radiology coding guidance from a professional society user guide. It discusses documentation and reporting considerations for ultrasound-based vascular access support.
-
Documentation for complete abdominal CT scanning
This section covers documentation and reporting issues for abdominal computed tomography and cites professional practice guidelines for CT of the abdomen and pelvis. It discusses general protocol and request-information considerations for CT exams.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames reporting questions for ultrasound guidance in interventional radiology
- What documentation topics are associated with abdominal CT examinations
- Which professional references are discussed in relation to radiology imaging documentation
- How the article distinguishes broad imaging protocols from report documentation expectations
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Billing and reimbursement staff
- Interventional radiology practices
- Physicians and advanced practitioners
- Medical necessity review staff
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com
