AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2014 Issue 3 (Summer)
Radiology Test Case Answer
RADIOLOGY TEST CASE ANSWER Ultrasound Right Inguinal Mass HOW TO CODE 76882 Ultrasound, extremity, nonvascular, real-time with image documentation; limited, anatomic specific DISCUSSION Proper reporting of an ultrasound examination of a hernia would depend on the anatomic site scanned. Common examples include 76705 (limited abdomen), 76857 (limited pelvis), and 76882 (limited extremity). In this example, because the mass was located below the level of the inguinal ligament, it is appropriate to report a limited ultrasound of the lower extremity (code 76882 ). Code 76881 is used for a complete ultrasound examination of an extremity; Coding tip The CPT 2014...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article reviews a radiology test case involving an ultrasound evaluation of an inguinal mass and discusses how the anatomic site and extent of the exam affect coding selection. It is aimed at coders, radiology staff, and billing professionals who need a general understanding of ultrasound code categories, annual codebook guidance, and documentation considerations.
Why This Topic Matters
Radiology ultrasound coding depends heavily on the body area examined and whether the study is limited or complete. This article helps readers understand the general framework for matching the reported service to the documented exam.
Article Sections
-
How to Code
Introduces the case and identifies the reported ultrasound service for the scenario.
-
Discussion
Explains the broader relationship between ultrasound exam scope, anatomic location, and code selection across related body regions. Also references annual coding guidance and documentation considerations.
-
Coding tip
Summarizes a coding note from the CPT codebook about reportability and the importance of reviewing current introductory notes each year.
What You Will Learn
- How this radiology case is framed for coding review
- How ultrasound exam scope relates to anatomic region
- Why current codebook guidance matters for ultrasound reporting
- What types of documentation considerations are discussed for radiology exams
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Medical billers
- Radiology practice staff
- Coding educators
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.


Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com