How To Use CPT Code 76512

CPT 76512 describes the diagnostic procedure of ophthalmic ultrasound, specifically B-scan, with or without a non-quantitative A-scan superimposed. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 76512?

CPT 76512 can be used to describe the diagnostic procedure of ophthalmic ultrasound, specifically B-scan, with or without a non-quantitative A-scan superimposed. This code is used when a provider uses high-frequency sound waves to examine the intraocular and orbital structures of the eye.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76512 is: ‘Ophthalmic ultrasound, diagnostic; B-scan (with or without superimposed non-quantitative A-scan)’. This procedure involves the use of B-scan ultrasound imaging to examine the intraocular and orbital structures of the eye.

3. Procedure

1. The provider applies topical anesthesia to the eye.
2. The provider places a small probe directly on the eye.
3. The provider applies high-frequency sound waves using the probe.
4. The sound waves produce echoes, creating images of the eye structures on a screen.
5. The provider examines the images to diagnose any abnormalities or disorders.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76512 is used when a provider needs to examine the intraocular and orbital structures of the eye using B-scan ultrasound imaging. This procedure is helpful in diagnosing conditions such as retinal detachment, vitreous bleeding, tumors, or foreign bodies in the eye socket.

5. When to use CPT code 76512

CPT code 76512 should be used when a provider performs a diagnostic ophthalmic ultrasound using B-scan, with or without a non-quantitative A-scan superimposed. This code is appropriate for situations where the provider needs to examine the intraocular and orbital structures of the eye.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76512, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the ophthalmic ultrasound
• Details of the procedure, including the use of B-scan and any superimposed A-scan
• Date and time of the procedure
• Findings and diagnosis based on the ultrasound images
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76512, ensure that the provider performs the B-scan ultrasound with or without a non-quantitative A-scan superimposed. It is important to follow payer policies regarding the use of modifiers, such as professional component modifier 26 or technical component modifier TC, if applicable. If the provider performs both B-scan and quantitative A-scan during the same patient-provider encounter, use CPT code 76510. If the provider performs only A-scan, use CPT code 76511.

8. Historical information

CPT 76512 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2005, when the description was updated to include the option of a non-quantitative A-scan superimposed.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a B-scan ultrasound to examine the intraocular and orbital structures of a patient with suspected retinal detachment.
2. A provider uses B-scan ultrasound imaging to diagnose a tumor in the eye of a patient.
3. A provider performs a B-scan ultrasound to detect vitreous bleeding in a patient with a history of trauma to the eye.
4. A provider uses B-scan ultrasound to identify a foreign body in the eye socket of a patient.
5. A provider performs a B-scan ultrasound to evaluate the intraocular and orbital structures of a patient with unexplained vision loss.
6. A provider uses B-scan ultrasound imaging to assess the progression of a retinal detachment in a patient undergoing treatment.
7. A provider performs a B-scan ultrasound to monitor the size and characteristics of a tumor in the eye of a patient.
8. A provider uses B-scan ultrasound to evaluate the healing process of vitreous bleeding in a patient.
9. A provider performs a B-scan ultrasound to confirm the removal of a foreign body from the eye socket of a patient.
10. A provider uses B-scan ultrasound imaging to assess the effectiveness of treatment for a patient with a previously diagnosed eye disorder.