tci Part B Insider - 2012 Issue 29

Reader Question: Appropriate Back Ultrasound Code May Surprise You

Question: Which ultrasound code applies for examining a mass on the back?Answer: The answer depends on whether the physician documents the mass as being on the upper back, the lower back, or focused on the spinal canal.CPT® Assistant (May 2009) supports the following coding for ultrasound of a palpable soft-tissue mass:Upper back: 76604, Ultrasound, chest (includes mediastinum), real time with image documentationLower back: 76705, Ultrasound, abdominal, real time with image documentation; limited (e.g., single organ, quadrant, follow-up). Spinal canal: Alternatively, if the mass is not suspected of being in soft tissue and the documentation shows ultrasound...

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