CPT Code 76870 | Description & Clinical Information

CPT 76870 describes the performance of an ultrasound on the scrotal pouch, which houses the male testicles, to evaluate any potential disorders of the testes, the male reproductive organs responsible for producing sperm.

Official Description

The CPT book defines CPT code 76870 as: “Ultrasound, scrotum and contents”.

Clinical Information

The procedure described by CPT code 76870 is an ultrasound examination of the scrotum. This diagnostic test is used to evaluate the anatomy of the scrotum and its contents. The test is also used to identify the cause of any pain or swelling in the scrotum that a patient may experience.

During the examination, the patient is asked to remove any clothing or jewelry that would interfere with the test. Then, the physician or ultrasound technician applies a conductive gel on the skin overlying the scrotum. This gel helps in the transmission of the sound waves from the ultrasound machine to the scrotum.

Once the gel is applied, an ultrasound machine with a transducer is used to conduct the test. The transducer is a handheld device that resembles a wand. The transducer sends high-frequency sound waves through the gel and into the scrotum. The sound waves bounce off the tissues in the scrotum, and these echoes are detected by the transducer.

To capture images of the scrotum, the transducer is pressed against the skin and moved over the area being studied. The machine creates images that are displayed on a monitor. The images show the internal structures of the scrotum, such as the testicles, epididymis, and the blood vessels, among others.

The images produced by the test can help detect any abnormalities in the scrotum. Some of the abnormalities that can be detected through the test include testicular tumors, cysts, inflammation, and varicoceles. The test can also be useful in evaluating infertility since it provides important information on the quality and quantity of sperm.

Overall, the CPT code 76870 procedure is a useful diagnostic tool in the evaluation of the scrotum. It is non-invasive, painless, and relatively fast. Patients who are experiencing pain, swelling or other symptoms in the scrotal area should consider undergoing this test. It is important to consult with a physician or a radiologist to determine if the test is necessary and what to expect during the procedure.

Return to all the CPT codes for diagnostic ultrasound procedures of the genitalia.