Ultrasound (CPT code 97035)

Therapeutic ultrasound is a deep heating modality that produces a sound wave of 0.8 to 3.0 Mhz. In the human body, ultrasound has several pronounced effects on biologic tissues. It is attenuated by certain tissues and reflected by bone. Thus, tissues lying immediately next to bone can receive an even greater dosage of ultrasound, as much as 30% more. Because of the increased extensibility ultrasound produces in tissues of high collagen content, combined with the close proximity of joint capsules, tendons, and ligaments to cortical bone where they receive a more intense irradiation, it is an ideal modality for increasing mobility in those tissues with restricted range of motion.

The application of ultrasound is considered medically necessary for patients requiring deep heat to a specific area for reduction of pain, spasm, and joint stiffness, and for the increase of muscle, tendon and ligament flexibility.

Specific indications for the use of ultrasound application include:

- the patient has tightened structures limiting joint motion that require an increase in extensibility; or

- the patient has symptomatic soft tissue calcification.

Ultrasound application is not considered to be medically necessary for the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, or any other pulmonary condition. Please see ICD-9 Codes That Do Not Support Medical Necessity section of the policy.

Standard treatment is 3-4 treatments per week for one month. Additional treatments must meet medical necessity requirements.

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