Radiology Question for the Week of January 15, 2018

Question:

If a patient has just an abdominal aorta ultrasound, do we use code 76770 or 76775?

Answer:

The appropriate code would be either of the following:

76775

Ultrasound, retroperitoneal (e.g., renal, aorta, nodes), real time with image documentation; limited

76706

Ultrasound, abdominal aorta, real time with image documentation, screening study for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)

Code 76706 is assigned when a screening ultrasound for AAA is ordered for a Medicare beneficiary. Otherwise, code 76775 would be assigned. Code 76770 represents a complete retroperitoneal and requires additional documented elements.

76770

Ultrasound, retroperitoneal (e.g., renal, aorta, nodes), real time with image documentation; complete

This question was answered in September edition of Radiology Compliance Manager. For more hot topics relating to radiology services, please view our store, or call us at 1.800.252.1578 ext. 2.

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Radiology Question for the Week of January 15, 2018

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