How To Use CPT Code 0689T

CPT 0689T describes the use of quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization, including interpretation and report, obtained without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the same anatomy. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0689T?

CPT 0689T can be used to describe the use of quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization by a healthcare provider. This code is used when the provider analyzes ultrasound imaging data using specialized software to evaluate and quantify tissue characteristics. The provider then interprets the data and prepares a report based on their findings.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0689T is: ‘Quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization (non-elastographic), including interpretation and report, obtained without diagnostic ultrasound examination of the same anatomy (eg, organ, gland, tissue, target structure).’ It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with certain other ultrasound codes.

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider uses ultrasound imaging data and specialized software to analyze and quantify tissue characteristics.
2. Using the software, the provider evaluates the ultrasound images and assigns numerical values to different areas of the image to indicate their lightness and darkness relative to each other.
3. Based on the analysis, the provider can identify healthy tissue, as well as any abnormalities or areas of concern.
4. The provider then interprets the data and prepares a report detailing their findings and recommendations.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0689T is appropriate when the provider performs quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the same anatomy. This code should not be reported if other specific ultrasound codes are used in conjunction with it. It is important to review the code guidelines and ensure that the circumstances meet the criteria for reporting CPT 0689T.

5. When to use CPT code 0689T

CPT code 0689T should be used when a healthcare provider performs quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the same anatomy. It is important to review the code guidelines and ensure that the circumstances meet the criteria for reporting this code. If a diagnostic ultrasound of the same structure is performed, a different code may be more appropriate.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 0689T, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The specific anatomy or target structure being evaluated
• The use of quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the same anatomy
• The date and time of the procedure
• The findings and interpretation of the quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization
• Any recommendations or follow-up plans based on the results
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 0689T, ensure that the circumstances meet the criteria for reporting this code. It should not be reported in conjunction with certain other ultrasound codes. Review the code guidelines and documentation requirements to ensure accurate billing. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by payers or regulatory bodies.

8. Historical information

CPT 0689T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2022. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A radiologist performs quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization to assess the liver for fibrosis without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the liver.
2. An orthopedic surgeon uses quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization to evaluate the density and composition of a bone fracture without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the fracture site.
3. A urologist performs quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization of the prostate to assess for abnormalities without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the prostate.
4. A gynecologist uses quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization to evaluate the endometrium for abnormalities without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the endometrium.
5. A cardiologist performs quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization of the heart to assess myocardial function without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the heart.
6. A dermatologist uses quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization to evaluate a skin lesion for malignancy without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the lesion.
7. An ophthalmologist performs quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization of the eye to assess the thickness of the cornea without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the eye.
8. A gastroenterologist uses quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization to evaluate the pancreas for abnormalities without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the pancreas.
9. A vascular surgeon performs quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization of a blood vessel to assess for plaque buildup without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the vessel.
10. An oncologist uses quantitative ultrasound tissue characterization to evaluate a tumor for characteristics and growth patterns without a diagnostic ultrasound examination of the tumor.